The 2019 Swiss Open will reach an exciting finish on Sunday with a final not many would have foreseen as the in-form Spaniard Albert Ramos Vinolas, a former finalist at the Monte Carlo Masters, takes on the red hot Cedrik Marcel Stebe. Whilst Ramos Vinolas’ run is not perhaps entirely surprising, Stebe’s has been nothing short of spectacular. But who will lift the trophy?
Swiss Open Final Prediction
Albert Ramos Vinolas vs Cedrik-Marcel Stebe
Head-to-head: first meeting
Stebe as been the story of the tournament without a doubt. He’s managed to beat top-quality opponents to make this final and it should be anything but a one-sided affair. His narrow win over Jiri Vesely in the second round proved he can hold his nerve, whilst his quarterfinal and semifinal wins, accomplished in one day, proved his physical strength.
What’s perplexing about Stebe’s Gstaad campaign is that he’s never dominated the match stats. But this sport rewards winning the big points much more and Stebe has done just that. He’s been broken 11 times, saving 13 break points, but perhaps more importantly Stebe’s broken his opponents’ serve 16 out the 32 opportunities he’s got. Just goes to show sometimes mediocre stats can take of themselves if you do well with your chances.
While Stebe rightfully deserves all the adulation, Ramos Vinolas warrants a lot of credit as well. The Spaniard has been solid throughout the week, but will know full well Stebe could be a dangerous opponent. The Spaniard is yet to drop a set and has beaten top class clay-courters. His serving numbers have been particularly impressive. but he has also been hitting well off the ground from both wings.
Who wins it?
Taking everything into account, it’s fair to say Stebe enters this match as the underdog despite his impressive run. It’s the German’s first ATP Tour final and nerves may well affect him. And Ramos Vinolas unquestionably has the better forehand, which could well prove decisive on the clay.
Furthermore, after playing two long three-setters in one day, which was affected by rain delays, Stebe may find himself short of energy. He spent four hours on the court on Saturday and will need to find another two hours at least of his best to challenge Ramos Vinolas. Will Stebe make that happen? It’s not entirely impossible, but the Spaniard has the quality and the experience to end Stebe’s magical run in Gstaad.
Prediction: Ramos Vinolas in 3
Main photo:
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