There are four exciting ATP Bastad quarterfinal matchups scheduled. This includes 14-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal’s first meeting against the rapidly improving Mariano Navone. As always, we at LWOT give our predictions and analysis for all the matches. But which four players do you think will reach the semifinals in Sweden?
ATP Bastad Quarterfinal Predictions
Duje Ajdukovic vs Thiago Monteiro
Head-to-head: First meeting
Ajdukovic has won four matches in a row in Bastad after coming through qualifying. Monteiro did not need to play in the qualifying, but he swept aside the two-time French Open runner-up Casper Ruud in straight sets in the last round. The Brazilian’s forehand was superb in that match, and he will be tough to stop if he is in that form again. Ajdukovic could be in for a difficult day against an in-form Monteiro.
Prediction: Monteiro in 2
Thiago Tirante vs Roberto Carballes Baena
Head-to-head: First meeting
Like Monteiro, Tirante pulled off a big upset by overcoming the No. 1 seed in Bastad Andrey Rublev. Carballes Baena’s style is very different to Rublev’s, and there will undoubtedly me many grueling rallies in this matchup. The Spaniard played two long matches to reach this point. A slight drop in intensity from him could be the difference if this match stretches into a third set.
Prediction: Tirante in 3
Nuno Borges vs Timofey Skatov
Head-to-head: Borges 1-1 Skatov
Skatov is yet another player who managed an upset to reach the quarterfinal. The Kazakhstani knocked out the third seed, Tallon Griekspoor, despite losing the opening set. But I think Borges will overcome him to get to the semifinal. Skatov can be very inconsistent, and he benefited from Griekspoor making several unforced errors. Borges’ level is typically consistent on clay and he is likely to be solid enough to navigate this challenge.
Prediction: Borges in 2
Rafael Nadal vs Mariano Navone
Head-to-head: First meeting
Nadal’s victory against Cameron Norrie was a good demonstration of his improving level. He is still not playing well enough to challenge at the upcoming Olympics, but the Spaniard still could if his form keeps getting better. Navone possesses more firepower than Norrie and he will provide a different test to the 22-time Grand Slam champion. However, Nadal’s previous performance has convinced me that he can meet the challenge, although Navone could be the first player to take a set from Nadal in the singles in Bastad.
Prediction: Nadal in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
