Grigor Dimitrov and Tommy Paul are trying to catch up in the ATP Race to Turin this week. But the story of the event at the ATP Stockholm Open has undeniably been Stan Wawrinka, who is into his first semifinal in well over a year. The time has come to see if he can truly keep going and potentially claim the title here. Who do you think will make the final?
ATP Stockholm Semifinal Predictions
Grigor Dimitrov vs Tallon Griekspoor
Head-to-head: Dimitrov 1-0 Griekspoor
Grigor Dimitrov beat Tallon Griekspoor very comfortably at the US Open this year, a match that doesn’t reflect how tough the Dutchman can often be for the top players. Seems like this one should be much closer. Dimitrov loves this venue with a title in 2013 and two more finals (2014, 2017), still playing well indoors after all these years. But Griekspoor has done some great work this week too, snapping the streak of Jacob Fearnley and taking out Casper Ruud. It would be tempting to side with the underdog here, but in light of their recent meeting and how the Bulgarian routined Dominic Stricker on Friday, he has to be granted a small edge.
Prediction: Dimitrov in 3
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Stan Wawrinka vs Tommy Paul
Head-to-head: Wawrinka 1-1 Paul
Stan Wawrinka was just 7-16 for the year going into Stockholm, but he’s rolling back the years now. Indoor courts weren’t his favorite setting in his prime and it’s at this stage of his career when they started playing to his strengths a bit more. That booming first serve is still intact and he desperately needs to be on top of the points now. So far he’s crushing the ball and everything is going in. How much energy does he have left though? Tommy Paul has the athleticism to get the veteran into some intense rallies and should be able to take time away pretty effectively too. Wawrinka will need that vintage level again to somehow get through this one.
Prediction: Paul in 3
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
