The Monte-Carlo Masters serves up a replay of the 2021 NextGen ATP Finals, as Sebastian Korda takes on teen phenom Carlos Alcaraz.
Carlos Alcaraz is on the precipice of taking the ATP by storm. The Spanish 18 year-old just secured the biggest title of his young career at the Miami Masters, where he defeated Casper Ruud in the final. He sits at No. 11 in the world — a career high. Alcaraz also had an impressive run in Indian Wells, where he lost to compatriot Rafael Nadal in the semifinals. It was later revealed that Nadal suffered stress fractures in several ribs during their semi.
Sebastian Korda has often seemed on the cusp of breaking through in his own right. The 21 year-old American is the world No. 42. Like Alcaraz, Korda also lost to Nadal in Indian Wells. He came oh so close to upsetting the Australian Open champion, but Nadal clawed his way back from a deep deficit in the third to secure the win.
Alcaraz is playing lights out tennis right now. It seems everything he touches (except perhaps Nadal) turns to gold. And then there’s the fact that the tour has now moved onto his favorite surface. Korda is no slouch on clay, himself. The American is more nimble on the dirt than most of his countrymen and he even has a title from 2021 at the clay-court event in Parma. Still, it’s hard to imagine Korda piecing enough of a game to take even a set from Alcaraz at the moment–much less two.
Cheryl pick: Alcaraz in 2
Ricky pick: Alcaraz in 2
Rafa said that the stress fracture was on his 3rd rib on the left side, not “several ribs”.
Agree, Alcaraz in 2.
when will Wednesday’s best bets be released. Yesterdays was pretty spot on except for the upset pick and that’s really good. Made cool cash yesterday.
What was that about it being a big tournament, he doesn’t need a break, he’ll be right.
You guys certainly are the experts. How much do you charge per hour? I’m thinking of making a regular booking to your advisory services.
Monet Carlo is well known for its large number of upsets as players make the transition from hard to clay after quite a long hard court season. This year has been no different.
Sinner plays the big points better. He’s extremely resilient and has a robust formula that’s not prone to breaking down.
Ruusuvuori was miles ahead on the stat sheet until midway through the 2nd set. Bet against Sinner at your peril.