Saturday promises to be a huge spectacle at ATP Rome as Jannik Sinner is set to return. Matteo Berrettini is another Italian taking to the court looking to defeat Fabio Fognini’s conqueror, Jacob Fearnley. Who will advance to the next round?
ATP Rome Day 4 Predictions
Pedro Martinez vs Hubert Hurkacz
Head-to-head: Hurkacz 4-0 Martinez
A close look at the head-to-head would suggest that this will be smooth sailing for Hurkacz. But far from it. Hurkacz has been troubled by a serious back injury this season, restricting him to just 15 matches. His first match of his comeback in Madrid didn’t go to plan as he lost to Benjamin Bonzi in straight sets. Martinez’s form has been dire in the last couple of months, but he secured a solid 6-4 6-2 win against Mattia Bellucci in his opening match of the week. Clay remains Martinez’s comfort zone, and if Hurkacz’s back is still a lingering issue, he’s likely to relinquish his perfect record in this matchup.
Prediction: Martinez in 3
Learner Tien vs Tomas Machac
Head-to-head: Machac 1-0 Tien
Wednesday was a massive moment in the young career of Learner Tien. He defeated Reilly Opelka in straight sets to register his first ATP win on clay. Although primarily a hard-court specialist, Tien’s game suits all surfaces. That blend of dexterity, quick movement, and variation is vital in unsettling opponents on clay. Unfortunately for Tien, Machac is more complete on this surface, but it should still be a valuable learning experience (no pun intended) for the 19-year-old.
Prediction: Machac in 2
Tommy Paul vs Roberto Bautista Agut
Head-to-head: Paul 3-3 Bautista Agut
Bautista Agut won the first three meetings in this rivalry, but there has been a complete power shift since, with Paul triumphing in their last three matches. Paul is also on the ascent, pushing to return into the Top 10, and he’ll very likely edge this head-to-head on current form.
Prediction: Paul in 2
Matteo Berrettini vs Jacob Fearnley
Head-to-head: first meeting
Fearnley knocked out Fabio Fognini in straight sets, ensuring the Italian veteran’s final Rome appearance ended at the first hurdle. And he could do further damage by eliminating another of the home nation’s tennis stalwarts. Berrretini is also in a race against time to be fit for the tournament after his recent retirement in Madrid. It’s still his match to lose, but the timing of his abdominal injury will raise Fearnley’s hopes. This could be a three-setter.
Prediction: Berrettini in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey – USA TODAY Sports
