Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the ATP Rotterdam match.
Both players advanced to the second round of this ATP 500 event with straight-set victories, but the Dane had to exert more effort to get through, which could play a role in this match.
Pablo Martinez Portero
The Spaniard secured a solid win over his more experienced compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut, despite not being particularly comfortable on this surface. His 6:3, 6:2 victory looked convincing, but he had to battle for nearly every game, leading to a match duration of 1 hour 41 minutes. Martinez Portero was excellent on serve, saving 5 out of 6 break points, while converting 5 of 13 opportunities against Bautista Agut.
Holger Rune
The fifth seed had a much tougher match, needing 2 hours 11 minutes to overcome Lorenzo Sonego (7:6, 6:4). Rune had numerous break-point chances, but the Italian saved 11 of 13, extending the match longer than expected. Fortunately for Rune, he avoided a deciding set, something he struggled with during the Australian Open.
Pablo Martinez Portero vs Holger Rune Prediction
Both players were tested in their first-round matches, and fatigue could lead to errors and longer rallies in this encounter. While Rune is the clear favourite, Martinez Portero is likely to push him into a competitive battle with plenty of long games.
