One more ATP match remains in North America before the main draw of the US Open kicks off, and it’s an all-unseeded final between Botic van de Zandschulp and Márton Fucsovics at the Winston Salem Open. As always, LWOT previews and predicts the ATP 250 final.
ATP Winston Salem Final Prediction
Botic van de Zandschulp vs Marton Fucsovics
Head-to-head: Van de Zandschulp 2-1
Van de Zandschulp, formerly ranked No. 22 on tour, is one of the highest-ranked players to never win an ATP title. His level of play has decreased over the years, but he’s been brave on both the serve and return this week. Van de Zandschulp also made the semifinals of this event in 2022, well aware of these courts as he’s often gritty in long rallies with his power. He particularly fired his forehand well during his semifinal win over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard on Friday, where he won 6-4 7-5 and came back from a break down in the second set.
Fuscovics, on the other hand, has played far less tennis this week, either due to good fortune or strong play. The two-time ATP title-winner is yet to drop a set in Winston Salem and made it to the finals via a walkover by Sebastian Korda. Fuscovics is a bit less aggressive from the baseline compared to Van de Zandschulp, and he’s similarly ranked far lower than his career high ranking of No. 31.
One could argue that Van de Zandschulp is the favorite because of his match play and experience on hard courts. A reminder — he stunned Carlos Alcaraz around this time last year at the 2024 US Open. However, Fuscovics could also be considered the favorite with his aggressive serve and movement, something that works well on these faster hard courts. Fuscovics will have to play to Van de Zandschulp’s weaker backhand, often a loopy shot that can be targeted more easily. Fuscovics is also faster than his opponent, and he can work to wear down a player like Van de Zandschulp, who may be out of gas.
This is a 50-50 matchup, but the edge may have to go to Fuscovics, who had more time off, and is simply the more fit player when it comes to a big ATP final. Expect a three-setter, but don’t expect a heavy favorite or likely winner.
Prediction: Fuscovics in 3
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane – USA TODAY Sports
