Monte-Carlo 2023: Rune vs Thiem Tennis Prediction & Pick

TennisSection previews the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters second-round match featuring Holger Rune vs Dominic Thiem on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.

Rune vs Thiem Match Preview and Prediction

Sixth seed Holger Rune will be taking on a player on the comeback trail in Dominic Thiem, who was one of the world’s very best just a couple of years ago in an exciting matchup. Who will triumph and move through to the Round of 16 at the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters?

Holger Rune hasn’t had the best season so far, but that’s only if we compare it to his insane run at the end of last year. He’s been pretty consistent this year, and he’ll be just as happy as anyone to return to the clay, where he was one of last year’s quarter-finalists at the French Open. It’s the definition of a popcorn match as he takes on Dominic Thiem, however, Thiem is very far from his best and Rune will pounce on that if Thiem gives him too much. Let’s see if the Dane is able to battle past a tough first match and move through to the Round of 16 of the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters.

Dominic Thiem played his best match of the season so far, which isn’t saying all too much, but nevertheless, a positive sign as he swept Gasquet aside 6-1 6-4 to set up a mouthwatering clash with 6th seed Holger Rune. If Thiem is able to serve well and stay consistent off both wings from the baseline, he’ll certainly have his chances to make the sets close and put Rune under pressure. He’ll also need to use his variety though, slicing the ball and coming to the net, not allowing Rune to grind with Thiem. Let’s see if the former world no. 3 is able to grab the win and move back into the Round of 16 at a Masters here at the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters.

Rune vs Thiem Prediction and Pick

Holger Rune and Dominic Thiem have never met before, with this being their first career meeting. I like this matchup for Holger Rune, he’s able to take the ball super early and be aggressive, something Thiem could struggle with. However, on the clay, there’s no doubt in my mind that Thiem would be able to outplay Rune time and time again, unfortunately for him this isn’t the grand slam champion Thiem coming to play. I think Rune will win, but it won’t necessarily be a straightforward first match as he looks ahead to the last 16 at the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters.