Alexander Zverev lost to Tallon Griekspoor in Indian Wells last month and he’s getting another deadly opening draw in an ATP 1000 event in Monte Carlo. The two-time semifinalist at this venue (2018, 2022) will face in-form Matteo Berrettini. Zverev leads the head-to-head 4-2, including two wins across their three matches on clay. Who do you think will come out on top this time?
ATP Monte Carlo Day 3 Predictions
Alexei Popyrin vs Ugo Humbert
Head-to-head: 1-1
Ugo Humbert reached the quarterfinals in Monte Carlo last year but all in all, he still produced a 5-7 record on clay that season. The Frenchman loves courts that are fast and slick with his flat ball-striking, the terre batue doesn’t have these characteristics. He’s been dangerous on this surface on occasion when he really locks in off the ground. Considering Alexei Popyrin hasn’t been in great form, this looks pretty open. The Australian’s topspin forehand is the best clay-court weapon in this matchup.
Prediction: Popyrin in 3
Tallon Griekspoor vs Arthur Fils
Head-to-head: 1-1
Arthur Fils made the quarterfinals in the last two ATP 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami, so the expectations are increasing for the young Frenchman. He’s shown a few times already how dangerous his peak level is, now he just needs to start putting it together consistently. While Tallon Griekspoor has been one of the most in-form players on tour since February, he has to switch quickly from the slight altitude in Marrakech after losing there in the final on Sunday. More rest, more time to prepare – this should be enough for Fils to have the edge.
Prediction: Fils in 2
Alexander Zverev vs Matteo Berrettini
Head-to-head: Zverev 4-2
It’s been a while since we watched these two compete against each other with Matteo Berrettini straight-setting Alexander Zverev at Wimbledon two years ago. Grass gave the Italian a pretty nice edge, but of course he’s also a capable clay-courter with six ATP Tour titles to his name. Alexander Zverev has looked fragile ever since losing the Australian Open final and presently can’t bring himself to take risks in pressure situations. He’ll need to hope that he outgrinds Berrettini without getting into those sticky moments.
Prediction: Zverev in 3
Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
