It’s been an unpredictable week at ATP Gstaad, with the end result a semifinal line-up that includes some surprise names as well as more established competitors. All week, the altitude has tested players’ control and movement with matches hinging on who can handle the thin air best—both in terms of fitness and feel – and that will continue on semifinal day. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for both semifinals, but who will come out on top?
ATP Gstaad Semifinal Predictions
Juan Manuel Cerundolo vs Ignacio Buse
Head-to-head: first meeting
Juan Manuel Cerundolo has dropped a set in all three of his matches but has found a way through with his heavy topspin and clay-court smarts – including reeling off six straight games to beat Casper Ruud in the last eight. Ignacio Buse, on the other hand, having come through qualifying, hasn’t blinked in the main draw, taking out more experienced players with calm shot selection and excellent court coverage. They’ve never played before, and while Cerundolo brings more tour-level pedigree, Buse’s clean hitting and momentum mean his chances can’t be discounted. Indeed, if the Peruvian settles quickly, Buse might just be able to spring another upset.
Prediction: Buse in 3
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Alexander Bublik vs Arthur Cazaux
Head-to-head: Bublik 1-0 Cazaux
Alexander Bublik has served well all week and shown surprising consistency off the ground, which has helped him navigate a difficult draw. Arthur Cazaux, meanwhile, plays a more measured baseline game than the Kazakh, but has adapted well to the altitude and shown some smart point construction in battling wins over Nikoloz Basilashvili, Tomas Martin Etcheverry, and young Swiss star Jerome Kym. This will be their second meeting, and with both showing flashes of brilliance, this could turn into a momentum-heavy battle. If Bublik stays locked in mentally and avoids lapses, his variety might tip the balance. Cazaux has proven he can hang with powerful hitters but this might be one challenge too far for the Frenchman.
Prediction: Bublik in 3
Main photo credit: Susan Mullane-Imagn Images
