In what promises to be an entertaining semifinal, world #1 Jannik Sinner will take on surprise package Jack Draper for a place in the US Open final. As ever, we here at LWOT will be offering our prediction for the semifinal, as well as the action in the women’s draw, but who will book their place in Sunday’s final?
US Open Men’s Semifinal Prediction
Jannik Sinner vs Jack Draper
Jim: It has been an excellent tournament for Draper. The Briton has delivered on his considerable promise and should be able to build from here. But this is surely a challenge too far. Yes, he has not yet dropped a set, but he has also hasn’t come up against any opponents of Sinner’s quality – with the Italian demonstrating exactly how much quality he has in an excellent four-set win over Daniil Medvedev. Draper might take a set, but even that would be something of a surprise.
Prediction: Sinner in 3
Ateet: Sinner got past his biggest test in the form of Medvedev and now he is the overwhelming favorite for the title. Almost all departments of his game looked as sharp as they get and without a significant physical tax. Draper has not lost a set so far and has looked amazing, but an in-form Sinner on hard courts is a completely different test. Draper will need to serve at a very high percentage to have any chance. Sinner is the stronger player from the baseline and has the clutch factor in tiebreaks.
Prediction: Sinner in 4
Yesh: Draper is playing the best tennis of his life. And, at times, he looks unplayable. But Sinner just has another level to him. The world #1 can get Draper’s serves back in play, which neutralizes the Brit’s biggest weapon.
Prediction: Sinner in 4
Jordan: No one can take away Draper’s magnificent achievement of reaching the semifinals without dropping a set. However, it is true that his route has consisted of players he would expect to beat and others not performing near their best. Sinner presents a completely different challenge. The Italian is now the clear favorite to win the US Open, and I do not expect him to falter against the Briron. Draper might win a set, though.
Prediction: Sinner in 4
Main photo credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
