The ATP Masters 1000 Rome second round on May 9 features a blend of strong favorites and intriguing value opportunities. Arthur Fils looks well positioned to capitalize on his recent clay-court form against Andrea Pellegrino, while Alexei Popyrin’s sharp serving could make him competitive against Jakub Mensik. Jannik Sinner remains the clear standout, but Sebastian Ofner may have enough form to keep the scoreline closer than expected.
ATP Masters 1000 Rome 1/32-Finals
Pellegrino – Fils: 09.05.2026 18:30 CEST
H2H: first meeting
Andrea Pellegrino has won four of his last five matches. This week in Rome, the Italian qualified for the main draw tournament. In the opening main draw round, Pellegrino outlasted Nardi in three sets after losing the opening set.
Arthur Fils has won four of his last five matches. Last week in Madrid, Fils lost to Sinner in the semifinals in straight sets.
Best Bet to Make
According to the bookies, Fils is the favourite in this matchup and we agree. He is in great form and enjoys playing on clay. On the other hand, Pellegrino never succeeded at the Masters 1000 level.
That being said, Fils covering the games handicap is a value bet.
Value bet/ the best odds: Arthur Fils -5.5 games handicap @1.80 @bet365
Popyrin – Mensik: 09.05.2026 18:30 CEST
H2H: 0-3
Alexei Popyrin has lost three of his last five matches. This week in Rome, Popyrin defeated Berrettini in the opening round in straight sets. He offered and saved only one breakpoint. Last season in Rome, Popyrin lost to Medvedev in the third round.
Jakub Mensik has won three of his last five matches. Last week in Madrid, Mensik lost to Zverev in the 1/8-Finals in three sets.
Best Bet to Make
According to the bookies, Popyrin is the underdog in this matchup, but we disagree. He dominated in the opening round, especially on his serve. Mensik has played only three clay-court matches this season. If Popyrin serves well, we expect him to keep this match close.
That being said, Popyrin covering the games handicap is a value bet.
Value bet/ the best odds: Alexei Popyrin +3.5 games handicap @1.80 @bet365
Sinner – Ofner: 09.05.2026 19:00 CEST
H2H: 1-0
Jannik Sinner has won twenty three consecutive matches. Last week in Madrid, Sinner won the title, defeating Zverev in the final in straight sets.
Sebastian Ofner has lost three of his last five matches. Last week in Aix en Provence, Ofner lost to Hijikata in the second round in three sets. This week in Rome, he defeated Michelsen in straight sets. Last season in Rome, the Austrian lost to Cerundolo in the third round in straight sets.
Best Bet to Make
According to the bookies, Sinner is the favourite in this matchup and we agree. However, Ofner played well in the opening round and the bookies are underestimating him. Sinner has played many matches over the past few months. We expect Ofner to keep this match closer than what the bookies think.
That being said, Ofner covering the games handicap is a value bet.
Value bet/ the best odds: Sebastian Ofner +6.5 games handicap @1.91 @bet365
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
