Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the ATP Rotterdam match.
Two years ago, these players met in the first round of the Australian Open, with Tsitsipas winning in straight sets (6:2, 7:6, 6:3). However, heading into this match, the Greek is far from an overwhelming favourite.
Stefanos Tsitsipas
Tsitsipas has had a poor start to the season, arriving in Rotterdam with just one win and two losses. At the United Cup, he suffered a shocking defeat to Alexander Shevchenko, who was outside the top 75. His Australian Open campaign ended in the first round with a loss to Alex Michelsen, a player of a similar level to Griekspoor. Even his recent win over world No. 138 Harold Mayot was not as straightforward as expected. He breezed through the first set (6:1), but struggled in the second, requiring a late break at 5:5 to secure a 7:5 victory after 56 minutes.
Tallon Griekspoor
Griekspoor, meanwhile, was not expected to defeat Matteo Berrettini in the previous round, yet he outlasted the powerful Italian in three sets (6:3, 6:7, 7:6). The Dutchman thrived in front of his home crowd, and his recent indoor hard-court record suggests he can compete on equal footing with Tsitsipas. Griekspoor has a 19-10 record in indoor events over recent seasons, while Tsitsipas stands at 17-10.
Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Tallon Griekspoor Prediction
Given Tsitsipas' uncertain form and Griekspoor’s strong indoor record and home support, this match is unlikely to be a quick one. At the very least, the Dutchman should be able to put up a serious fight, and he even has a realistic chance of winning. A long match with plenty of games looks to be the best bet.
