A blockbuster final matchup in Sydney pits top seed Aslan Karatsev against former world No. 1 Andy Murray on Saturday. A more surprising championship matchup in Adelaide features Arthur Rinderknech and Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Sydney Tennis Classic: (1) Aslan Karatsev vs. (WC) Andy Murray
Murray’s decision to take a late wild card into Sydney certainly proved to be the right one. The 34-year-old Scot needed some more match practice prior to the Australian Open after losing right away last week in Melbourne, and that is exactly he is getting. Murray has defeated Viktor Durasovic, No. 2 seed Nikoloz Basilashvili, David Goffin (via retirement following the first set), and Reilly Opelka, earning a place in his 69th ATP final.
Up next for Murray on Saturday is a first-ever meeting with Karatsev. The 20th-ranked Russian opened with a straight-set victory over Miomir Kecmanovic but then needed three sets against both Lorenzo Sonego and Dan Evans. Karatsev is playing well, but is he consistent enough to hit through Murray’s defense over the course of what — if he is to win — would surely be a long, physical contest? Probably not.
Pick: Murray in 2
Adelaide International 2: Arthur Rinderknech vs. (WC) Thanasi Kokkinakis
Rinderknech and Kokkinakis will obviously be going head-to-head for the first time in their careers, as well, when they clash in the Adelaide final on Saturday night. While Rinderknech is just now announcing himself on tour, Kokkinakis has been off the main tour for the better part of four years now because of injuries. This is a statement-making week for both men–one that potentially sets the stage for big success in 2022.
With a maiden ATP title on the line for each player, it is a huge occasion. But the situation may be tougher for Kokkinakis, who faces the pressure of getting the job done in front of a raucous home croud while also hoping to recover from several grueling matches. The 145th-ranked Australian is coming off three consecutive three-setters, whereas Rinderknech won both his quarter and semi in straight sets–including over Karen Khachanov on Thursday. Much to the chagrin of the Adelaide faithful, this sets up well for the 58th-ranked Frenchman.
Pick: Rinderknech in 2
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