TennisSection previews the 2022 Rome Open as Sebastian Korda takes on Botic van de Zandschulp in the first round on Monday, May 9th, 2022.
Just one ranking spot separate Sebastian Korda and Botic van de Zandschulp as both players prepare to make their Rome Open debuts. The Dutchman will be looking to avenge his most recent loss to the American from Monte Carlo. But will Korda allow it to happen?
At this time last year, Sebastian Korda’s ranking was not high enough to earn him a place in the main draw of the Rome Open. But it was a blessing in disguise as just a couple of weeks later, Korda made the trip to Italy, but in the Northern region to compete at the inaugural Parma Open. The American played flawless tennis during the week and not dropping a single set as he stormed to win his first ATP title. Having forged a reputationas one of the best players of his generation, Korda has done his ranking justice in recent months. He sits at a career-high ranking No. 30 on the eve of the 2022 Rome Open. He has already tallied six wins on clay this season (the same number as in 2021) and that includes a decent run to the semifinal of the EstorilOpen.
Botic van de Zandschulp was virtually unknown on the main tour at this point last season. However, the Dutchman has established himself as a Top 50 player in the last eight months, reaching the US Open quarterfinals last season as a qualifier. Van de Zandschulp has kept the good vibes flowing in 2022. He reached his first ATP final in Munich, but it was a bittersweet moment for him as he retired midway through the first set due to chest pains. He has been able to recover and was in action at the Madrid Open this past week where he lost in the second round to David Goffin. Can he make his mark on his Rome Open debut?
Sebastian Korda and Botic van de Zandschulp are currently tied at 1-1 in their head-to-head. The Dutchman won the pair’s first meeting on the indoor hard courts of St. Petersburg last season. Korda did get his revenge in Monte Carlo last month where he beat van de Zandschulp 7-5 6-4. Both players have developed a penchant for clay which makes this first-round match at the Rome Open a close call. Van de Zanschulp’s momentum was disrupted by his breathing difficulties in Munich and I think Korda could draw a lot of positives from his win over the World No. 31 from the Principality.
Free Tennis Pick and Prediction: Sebastian Korda to win in 3 sets.
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