Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the ATP London match.
The upcoming clash in London between Holger Rune and Matteo Arnaldi is shaping up to be a stern test for the Dane, despite his billing as the favourite. Both players bring individual strengths to the table, and the quick conditions on grass increase the potential for an extended encounter.
Holger Rune
Holger Rune has endured an uneven season, particularly when facing top-50 competition, managing just five victories across his last nine matches at that level. At Roland Garros, he once again fell short of expectations, bowing out in the round of 16. On grass, Holger Rune has picked up 10 wins from his last 14 outings but has yet to capture a title during this period. He has faced Matteo Arnaldi once previously, winning by four games (6:4, 6:4).
Matteo Arnaldi
Matteo Arnaldi continues to make strides in his development and notably defeated Novak Djokovic earlier this season. While grass is not his preferred surface, he has shown competitiveness, taking at least one set in seven of his last ten matches on it. This year’s grass campaign began with a loss in Stuttgart, where he was beaten in straight sets by Jan-Lennard Struff. Nevertheless, Arnaldi recorded a better first serve percentage in that match, landing 60% compared to 57% from the German, despite the four-game defeat margin.
Holger Rune vs Matteo Arnaldi Prediction
Holger Rune has struggled to assert himself against elite opposition and has yet to deliver a breakthrough performance on grass. Matteo Arnaldi is expected to remain solid on serve and should at the very least keep the match closely contested.
