The top two seeds remain in contention for the 2021 ATP Sofia Open title. Jannik Sinner will try to get his revenge against James Duckworth, while Gael Monfils takes on Gianluca Mager in his first match of the tournament. Who do you think will advance?
ATP Sofia Quarterfinal Predictions
John Millman vs Marcos Giron
Head-to-head: Giron 1-0
John Millman would probably struggle in faster indoor conditions, but he can operate very well when it’s as slow as in Sofia. Both players got to the quarterfinal stage for the second week in a row, but one will have to make the next step this time. Marcos Giron’s game has a bit more punch, which is definitely an asset on this surface. The American has not only managed to survive on the ATP Tour, but he’s also been really competitive. Playing and beating Alex de Minaur twice in the past two weeks has certainly tested his patience and point construction skills, he should be ready.
Prediction: Giron in 3
Kamil Majchrzak vs Filip Krajinovic
Head-to-head: First meeting
It’s been a rough patch of play for Filip Krajinovic, who came into this tournament on a four-match losing streak. The Serbian has been in imperious form so far though, dropping a mere six games in total against Alexander Lazarov and Laslo Djere. Kamil Majchrzak is here thanks to a lucky loser spot, which actually turned out to be the luckiest possible – not only did he start from the second round, he also got to play an exhausted opponent. The Pole hasn’t looked great in Sofia so far, even though his form of late was quite good and he made a few improvements to his serve. The contrast between their previous performances doesn’t exactly suggest an upset.
Prediction: Krajinovic in 2
Gianluca Mager vs Gael Monfils
Head-to-head: First meeting
Gianluca Mager is recognized as a clay-court specialist, but the Italian plays tennis a little different than the usual dirt maniacs. His style revolves around striking first and hitting the big serve, which can also take him far indoors. However, this should likely be where his road ends. Gael Monfils is yet to play a match in Sofia this week, but he should be in good match rhythm following a run to the semifinals in Metz. Even at this stage of his career, the Frenchman remains one of the best counter-punchers on tour.
Prediction: Monfils in 2
Jannik Sinner vs James Duckworth
Head-to-head: 1-1
James Duckworth is playing the best tennis of his life at the moment, highlighted by a runner-up finish at Nur-Sultan last week. His run also includes a win over Jannik Sinner from Toronto, which was a pretty stunning upset at the time. The Australian has definitely confirmed his good disposition later on, and Sinner will not be expecting a straightforward win this time. The indoor conditions are a very good fit for the youngster but he needs to stay consistent and not allow Duckworth’s great slice to disrupt his rhythm.
Prediction: Sinner in 3
Main Photo from Getty.
