The quarterfinal field in Eastbourne is set, as players look to end their Wimbledon preparations on a high. Local favorite Jack Draper is eyeing a semifinal spot, but it will not come easy against a very capable opponent. As always, we here at LWOT will be predicting every match for you, but who do you think will make the semifinals?
ATP Eastbourne Quarterfinal Predictions
Toby Samuel vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo
Head-to-head: First meeting
With very limited experience on the ATP Tour, Toby Samuel has played some confident tennis so far this week, highlighted by his upset win over top seed Matteo Arnaldi. The Brit has served well and played aggressively from the baseline as he now finds himself in the quarterfinals against another unlikely grass-court opponent in Juan Manuel Cerundolo. Cerundolo has the baseline advantage in this matchup, but on grass that edge can be minimized if Samuel continues serving the way he has throughout the week. If the Brit brings a similar level in both his serve and ground game, I can see him pulling off another upset here.
Prediction: Samuel in 3
Ugo Humbert vs Quentin Halys
Head-to-head: Humbert 1-0 Halys
An all-French showdown in Eastbourne pits the baseline game of Quentin Halys against the aggressive, big-serving game of Ugo Humbert. These two met a month ago at the French Open, where Halys won in straight sets, but on grass Humbert will have opportunities due to his bigger serve and more aggressive style. Ultimately, however, physical issues have become such a common theme with Humbert that Halys, who can also incorporate variety into his baseline game, could end up winning a match that goes the distance.
Prediction: Halys in 3
Jan Choinski vs Zizou Bergs
Head-to-head: First meeting
Despite playing multiple times in Challengers and qualifying events, Jan Choinski and Zizou Bergs will be meeting for the first time at ATP Tour level in the Eastbourne quarterfinals. Choinski has made the most of the opportunity provided to him, reaching the final eight after coming through qualifying, while Bergs has also picked up some valuable wins on the surface. While the Belgian possesses greater attacking variety and the more well-rounded game overall, Choinski’s serve and aggressive style may prove to be the difference on grass as the Brit looks to continue his impressive run.
Prediction: Choinski in 3
Jack Draper vs Gabriel Diallo
Head-to-head: First meeting
Back on tour after another lengthy injury layoff, Jack Draper has looked solid in his two matches so far in Eastbourne, winning both in straight sets, albeit against weaker opposition. Against the Canadian Gabriel Diallo, Draper will need to both raise his level and maximize any opportunities that come his way, as Diallo possesses a very dangerous serve, which can do significant damage on faster grass courts. From the baseline, however, Draper holds clear advantages. If he can return well enough and take his chances, two things that can be difficult to do after a long break from competition, he should be able to continue his run in Eastbourne.
Prediction: Draper in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
