Stefanos Tsitsipas has not been winning a lot lately, but neither has Botic van de Zandschulp, so who will prove less out of form when they clash at the 2023 European Open?
Stefanos Tsitispas has been winning this week in Antwerp, but it's been in the doubles. He teamed up with his brother Petros as they toppled two favoured teams to secure a semi-final at the event.
It's the best Tsitsipas has looked in a while, seemingly proving his claims that he's been practicing hard amidst struggles with form. What happens when he steps on a tennis court alone to face a really good and dangerous player?
Well, it might not be too terrible because his opponent hasn't been playing that well, either. Van de Zandschulp did win his opening-round match, but he's generally been playing below his level recently, which leaves a chance open for Tsitsipas.
Head-to-head:
Funnily enough, they never played so far on the ATP Tour, which is interesting as they're both part of the top and have been for a while. Stylistically, they're similar, albeit a bit different, as Tsitsipas is the far better mover, while the Dutch player has more powerful shots.
The serve is good on either side and will prove decisive for this matchup. Tsitsipas does seem to have the more reliable one, so we'll see what happens.
Prediction:
So, I do have hope that the Greek will finally get out of his slump after seeing him play in the doubles. Antwerp is a surface that should benefit Tsitsipas more, but again, it will come down to the serve.
Both rely heavily on it when things go south, and according to their recent form, I'd expect to see that from both sides. I'd expect a close match as well, but ultimately the Greek should prevail.
Prediction: Stefanos Tsitsipas to win in three sets.
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