Andrey Rublev vs Tommy Paul: Hamburg Open Preview and Prediction

Fifth seed Andrey Rublev takes on Tommy Paul in the pre-quarterfinals of the Hamburg Open. 

Rublev began his campaign dispatching Tennys Sandgren 6-3 6-3. The Russian's first-serve was on rampage as he smashed six aces and clocked a 90% winning percentage. 

Coming through the rigours of qualifying, Paul has shown tremendous resilience. He defeated the likes of Joao Sousa and Alexander Bublik in straight sets to book his place in the main draw. Playing against an experienced Kevin Anderson, the American began strong taking the first set 6-4. 

However, Anderson fought back bagelling him in the second set. Paul played sublime tennis in the third set clinching it 6-4. Despite smashing 14 aces and clocking an 83% winning percentage on the first serve, Anderson failed to grab the crucial points. 

Head to Head record 

Rublev leads the head to head record 1-0 against Paul. This is their first meeting on the clay surface. Having reached the finals of the Hamburg Open last year, Rublev would be looking to go one better this time. Paul being a clay-court specialist has slugged it out on the surface in his hometown in North Carolina. 

Both players would look to play aggressive tennis from the baseline and take the initiative early on. Rublev is more consistent and would aim to deploy his first-strike tennis. 

"It was the best match I've played on clay this season, in the end, I was able to control the match, I like the atmosphere here, I enjoy being back and I'm grateful to have won my first-round match", said Rublev sounding confident after his resounding win against Sandgren. 

An interesting match between two talented youngsters is in store for the fans. While Rublev starts as a slight favourite, Paul is growing in confidence with every match and would look to continue his good form. 

Prediction - Andrey Rublev to win in three sets 

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