Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Albert Ramos Vinolas: US Open Preview and Prediction

World number six, Stefanos Tsitsipas begins his US Open run with an opening-round clash against Albert Ramos Vinolas.

The Greek reached the semifinals in the recently-concluded Cincinnati Open where he lost to Milos Raonic in straight sets.

On the other hand, Vinolas is playing his first tournament in more than five months after he lost in the semifinals of the Chile Open to Casper Ruud. 

It has been a good season for Tsitsipas having triumphed in the Marseille Open and finished as runner-up in the Dubai Open and the Ultimate Tennis Showdown. 

Vinolas has an unwanted record to his name having failed to cross the first round of a grand slam in the past seven attempts. 

In the absence of legends like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, this is Tsitsipas's best chance to win the US Open.

Strengths of Tsitsipas

The youngster has made a smooth transition to hard-courts with his notable performances. While his forehand and one-handed backhand are his major weapons, the Greek has resorted to a lot of volleying in his recent matches. However, his second serve lacks power and can be exploited by Vinolas. Tsitsipas knows to vary the game according to the match situation and that would keep him in good stead.

Strengths of Vinolas

Being a southpaw, his consistent forehand powered by topspin can create problems for every right-handed opponent. Since Vinolas depends more on creating the perfect angle to grab points, his game is one-dimensional and lacks a plan B. It is more physically grinding and the World number 41 often struggles to get cheap points. 

Head to Head record

Tsitsipas has won both his matches against Vinolas in straight sets. Having lost in the first round of the US Open last year, the Greek would look to prove himself. With just two wins on hard-courts this year, Vinolas will aim to resurrect his season by pushing Tsitsipas to the brink. 

Prediction - Stefanos Tsitsipas to win in straight sets

Featured image credits: tennis.bg