Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the ATP Mallorca match.
The quarter-final in Mallorca sees the seasoned Spaniard face off against the young American. For Roberto Bautista Agut, this represents an opportunity to impress the home crowd and capitalise on his strong form at a familiar venue. In contrast, Alex Michelsen may already have his focus shifting towards Wimbledon, where a more significant challenge awaits.
Alex Michelsen
Alex Michelsen has shown signs of improvement on grass, though his season as a whole has been underwhelming. The American has only one title to his name — a Challenger event in Estoril — and has suffered first-round eliminations in seven of the sixteen Masters events he has entered. His record at the quarter-final stage is also concerning, having lost 8 of his last 13 appearances at this phase. In Mallorca, Michelsen edged past Brandon Holt, but struggled with just 62% of first serves in and allowed three breaks of serve.
Roberto Bautista Agut
Roberto Bautista Agut appears rejuvenated on grass. He reached the semi-finals in London last week and has already claimed wins over three top-50 players on this surface. The Spaniard is producing strong statistics on grass — landing 74% of first serves and winning 76% of points behind them. In Mallorca, Roberto Bautista Agut comfortably dispatched Bernard Tomic and Tomás Martín Etcheverry, covering a confident -4.5 game handicap in both matches.
Alex Michelsen vs Roberto Bautista Agut Prediction
Given his motivation to perform in front of a home crowd, his strong grass-court form, and vast experience, the edge goes to the Spaniard. Whereas Alex Michelsen may be conserving energy for Wimbledon, Roberto Bautista Agut is fully expected to compete at maximum intensity here.
