Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Andrey Rublev: Nitto ATP Finals Preview and Prediction

Sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas takes on the seventh seed Andrey Rublev in the ATP Finals.

Key Insights

• The head to head record is tied 2-2 between Tsitsipas and Rublev.
• Tsitsipas is the defending champion.
• Rublev is making his debut at the tournament.
• With both the players having lost their opening encounters, the loser of this match may not make it to the semifinals. Hence, this is essentially a knockout match.
• Rublev has won the most matches and the most titles this season.
• Rublev has a 40-9 win-loss record in 2020.
• Tsitsipas has won one title in 2020.

Tsitsipas lost to Dominic Thiem 7-6 4-6 6-3. 

A couple of missed opportunities in the first set and a crucial break of serve in the third set were the turning points of the match. The Greek later said that he missed the presence of the audience in the stands. His second serve was also shaky at 60%. 

Rublev had no answers to Nadal's onslaught as he succumbed meekly losing the match 6-3 6-4 in just 77 minutes. He later opined that he was nervous while serving in the first set. 

It showed in his performance as he was far from convincing and his red-hot form was not visible at all. His first serve was at a below-par 62% while his second serve was at an abysmal 43%. He also could not get any breakpoints on Nadal's strong serve. 

Both the players are equally equipped in covering the court, have good serves and powerful groundstrokes. 

Tsitsipas will be more familiar with the conditions while Rublev will be aiming for his maiden win at the O2 Arena. When the Greek gets going in full flow, he can beat anyone on the indoor hardcourts. The player who manages their nerves better and rises for the big occasion will sal through comfortably.

Prediction -Stefanos Tsitsipas to win in three sets

Featured Image Credits - Getty Images