We are up to the semifinal round of the Mixed Doubles competition at the Paris Olympics. And while these might not have been the teams most expected when the tournament began, these are the four with a shot at a medal. Our writers share their thoughts on both matches. Predicting the matches are Damian Kust, Jordan Reynolds, and Yesh Ginsburg. Who do you think will reach the Gold Medal match?
Paris Olympics Mixed Doubles Semifinal Predictions
Demi Schuurs and Wesley Koolhof (Netherlands) vs Xinyu Wang and Zhizen Zhang
Damian:
While we didn’t get the hyped four Zs duo of Zheng/Zhang, Chinese fans will not be complaining as their mixed is in the medal zone with the replacement in Wang proving very solid. But I’ll go with the experience of Schuurs/Koolhof, who might find a way to expose how the Chinese duo is a bit more rough around the edges in the doubles-specific elements.
Prediction: Schuurs and Koolhof in 2
Jordan:
I think Koolhof could make the difference in this matchup. Although the Chinese pair have impressed me so far, Koolhof has been on fire so far throughout the tournament. If he gets near those levels again it will be difficult for Wang and Zhang to cope.
Prediction: Schuurs and Koolhof in 2
Yesh:
The Chinese team has been a fun revelation in this event, but they’re honestly not comfortable enough with doubles to handle two doubles specialists like this Dutch team. Schuurs and Koolhof were built to win an Olympic medal, and they’re going to.
Prediction: Schuurs and Koolhof in 2
Katerina Siniakova and Tomas Machac (Czech Republic) vs Gabriela Dabrowski and Felix Auger-Aliassime (Canada)
Damian:
What a cracking Olympic tournament Auger-Aliassime is having, quickly becoming one of the biggest positive surprises of the week. Siniakova/Machac should be the favorites here though. No matter if the Czechs are still romantically involved or not, you can see their chemistry on the court hasn’t been impacted. And their games are a great fit with each other as well.
Prediction: Siniakova and Machac in 3
Jordan:
This promises to be a close match between two very strong pairs. Although Dabrowski is an excellent doubles player, it is tough to bet against a team containing Siniakova. Her and boyfriend Machac have playing styles that match each other well on the court, making them slight favorites to make the final.
Prediction: Siniakova and Machac in 2
Yesh:
The Canadian pair had a strong comeback over Gauff/Fritz in the quarters, but the dream of Gold ends here. The Czech pair is just way too good. No one left in this draw is beating them.
Prediction: Siniakova and Machac in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
