Doha QF previews and predictions: Rublev vs. Fucsovics, Fritz vs. Shapovalov

Andrey Rublev and Marton Fucsovics will play for the second time in a few days for a spot in Doha semifinals, having just faced each other in the Rotterdam title match. Meanwhile, Canadian Denis Shapovalov battles American Taylor Fritz.

(3) Andrey Rublev vs. Marton Fucsovics

Russia’s Andrey Rublev came into the 2021 season as the winningest player on tour. He won five titles in the COVID-abbreviated season last year and looks poised to continue that streak. He was part of Russia’s ATP Cup-winning team and he just pocketed the title in Rotterdam last week, which he ironically won over Thursday opponent Marton Fucsovics.

Fucsovics is on something of a roll himself. He went through qualies and made it all the way to the final in Rotterdam, where he eventually lost to Rublev. Unfortunately for the Hungarian, it also means that he is at risk for match fatigue.

Rublev holds a 2-1 head-to-head lead over Fucsovics, although the underdog hasn’t gotten a win since 2017–before either player had come into his own. Their matches have been both close and entertaining, and this one should be no different.

Cheryl pick: Rublev in 3

Ricky pick: Rublev in 2

(4) Denis Shapovalov vs. Taylor Fritz

Denis Shapovalov hasn’t had the greatest start to the 2021 season. The Canadian was ousted in the third round of the Australian Open by countryman Felix Auger-Aliassime and he lost both of his matches at the ATP Cup. He went into Doha with a losing 2-3 record on the year. Still, in Taylor Fritz, he faces an opponent to whom he’s never lost.

Shapovalov holds a 3-0 edge over Fritz, but they haven’t been easy wins. Their last match was last fall at the U.S. Open. Fritz took Shapovalov to five sets, losing 6-2 in the decider and their two other tilts were also competitive. This quarterfinal might be a battle, as well.

The Canadian had a first-round bye, so he earned his quarterfinal spot with a single win over countryman Vasek Pospisil. By contrast, Fritz took out Lorenzo Sonengo in the first round and No. 6 seed David Goffin in the last 16 to showcase his fine form. The matchup favors Shapovalov, but Fritz will make him work for it.

Cheryl pick: Shapovalov in 3

Ricky pick: Shapovalov in 3