The ATP Serbia Open in Belgrade, Serbia, has reached the quarterfinal stage and the local fans will be delighted to see two Serbian players still in the mix. Francisco Cerundolo is the highest seed remaining and is featured in this article. As always, we at LWOT will offer predictions for every match on the slate. But who will advance to the semifinals?
ATP Belgrade Quarterfinal Predictions
Jiri Lehecka vs Lukas Klein
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Jiri Lehecka won brilliantly against Marin Cilic in the second round. This was a much-needed win for Lehecka, who was on a three-match losing streak. He put a lot of pressure on Cilic’s second serve and will need to do the same against Lukas Klein, who also has a big first serve. This is Klein’s first quarterfinal on the ATP Tour, and he has defeated some good players this week. I like his chances if he can serve well but Lehecka is still the favourite for me.
Prediction: Lehecka in 3
Laslo Djere vs Fabian Marozsan
Head-to-Head: First meeting
For the most part, Laslo Djere’s season has been forgettable, but winning the Serbia Open title this week will boost his confidence. He is into his first quarterfinal of the season and has looked solid in his two matches. The serve looks dialled in with 22 aces so far. Fabian Marozsan is always a tricky player with a great upside but his form has been mediocre in the last couple of months. The Hungarian did well to reach the quarterfinals, but Djere should win this on his home soil.
Prediction: Djere in 3
Denis Shapovalov vs Christopher O’Connell
Head-to-Head: First meeting
This should be a fascinating contest between two single-handers, one right and one lefty. Both players were dominant in their second-round matches and did not get broken. O’Connell has not lost more than three games in a set so far and is playing some scintillating tennis. The fast conditions suit the aggressive game of both these players and it will come down to who can execute their shots better and make less unforced errors.
Prediction: O’Connell in 3
Francisco Cerundolo vs Hamad Medjedovic
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Francisco Cerundolo secured a Top 30 finish for the third year in a row after a brilliant win over Roman Safiullin in the second round. Defeating Safiullin on fast courts is never easy but Cerundolo remained solid throughout the match. He is the highest-ranked player remaining in the draw and will look to lift his first title on hard courts. However, he has a stern test against Hamad Medjedovic, who can take the racquet out of his opponent’s hands when playing well. Medjedovic’s potential is undeniable, but his consistency cannot be trusted at this point in his career. I wouldn’t be surprised if he wins, but I’m siding with the Argentinian.
Prediction: Cerundolo in 3
Main Photo Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports
