Some intriguing qualifying action in Rome today, with a few familiar names trying to earn their spots in the main draw. We've got three picks from the Italian Open qualifying final to break down.
Italian Open Qualifying Predictions
Pablo Carreno-Busta vs Stan Wawrinka
Head-to-head: Carreno-Busta 1-3 Wawrinka
The H2H actually favors Wawrinka, and there's a time when that would've meant something. But Stan is 39 now and ranked 125 in the world, grinding through qualifying on a surgically repaired knee, and the sharpness just isn't there anymore on a consistent basis. Carreno-Busta isn't in great form himself at 94 in the world, but he's the more reliable player right now and clay is where he's always been most dangerous.
I think this goes three sets because Wawrinka can always produce a big backhand day and Carreno-Busta's consistency from the baseline should wear him down eventually.
Prediction: Carreno-Busta in 3
Hugo Dellien vs Jesper De Jong
Head-to-head: Dellien 2-2 De Jong
Dead even in the H2H and not far apart in the rankings either, so this one genuinely could go either way. Dellien is a clay specialist in the truest sense, a grinder who's spent his whole career making life miserable for opponents on this surface, and Rome's heavy clay should suit him well. De Jong is the higher-ranked player and has been more active on tour recently, so fitness shouldn't be a concern.
Feel like Dellien's comfort on the surface just tips it, should still find a way to get through here, but three sets seems almost certain.
Prediction: Dellien in 3
Rinky Hijikata vs Nikoloz Basilashvili
Head-to-head: First meeting
Hijikata is ranked 891 in the world right now, which tells you everything you need to know about where his form is. That said, Basilashvili hasn't been a consistent tour presence in years, but he's still ranked 117 and his ball-striking on clay, particularly on a surface as heavy as Rome's, can be devastating when it clicks. Hard to see this being competitive at all. Basilashvili wins.
Prediction: Basilashvili in 3
For full predictions on ATP and WTA matches today, check out Uppset.
Credit Image: © Javier Borrego/AFP7 via ZUMA Press Wire