Felix Auger-Aliassime won last week’s tournament in Montpellier. His attempt to make it two titles in as many weeks begins Wednesday at the ATP 500 in Rotterdam, against Alexei Popyrin. Stefanos Tsitsipas, Cameron Norrie, and Marton Fucsovics are also set to play. We here at LWOT also predict all the other action from Rotterdam, including Stan Wawrinka vs Aleksandar Vukic.
ATP Rotterdam Day 3 Predictions
Marton Fucsovics vs Guy Den Ouden
Head-to-head: First meeting
Den Ouden has lost all three of his singles matches so far this season, with two of those coming on the ATP Challenger circuit. This should be the ideal draw for Fucsovics. The Hungarian’s modest 2-3 win/loss record will likely not be an issue here. He is the more complete player, and the backing of a home crowd for Den Ouden does not alter the skill gap between the players.
Prediction: Fucsovics in 2
Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Arthur Rinderknech
Head-to-head: First meeting
Many strong clay-court players struggle indoors, but Tsitsipas has performed well under a roof many times. That includes winning the ATP Finals. Although Rinderknech can produce good tennis anywhere, he is slightly more naturally suited to outdoor conditions. Tsitsipas’s level being unpredictable in the last few years does not prevent me from backing him here.
Prediction: Tsitsipas in 3
Cameron Norrie vs Christopher O’Connell
Head-to-head: Norrie 1-0 O’Connell
Norrie was impressive in the previous round against Roberto Bautista Agut. O’Connell dramatically overcame Valentin Royer 6-4 4-6 7-6 after a lengthy battle. Both men are happy to engage in lengthy rallies and grind out results. However, Norrie has added more aggression to his game over the last 18 months, and that ability to change gears gives him an edge here.
Prediction: Norrie in 2
Felix Auger-Aliassime vs Alexei Popyrin
Head-to-head: Popyrin 2-0 Auger-Aliassime
This is a dangerous matchup for Auger-Aliassime. Many players drop their level after winning a title, and Popyrin won both their previous meetings. Nonetheless, he is still back to triumph because of his outstanding indoor hard court. When performing well, Auger-Aliassime is among the best five ATP players in those conditions.
Prediction: Auger-Aliassime in 3
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
