Gael Monfils vs Diego Schwartzman - Semifinals - Vienna Open - Preview and Prediction

A scintillating showdown is assured in Vienna as World number 14, Gael Monfils takes on number 15, Diego Schwartzman in the semifinals tonight.

Key Insights

• Monfils leads the head to head record 2-1 against Schwartzman
• Both Monfils and Schwartzman won one title this year, Rotterdam and Los Cabos Open respectively
• Schwartzman lost in the first round in Vienna last year to Kyle Edmund
• Monfils retired hurt in the quarterfinals in Vienna last year to Fernando Verdasco
• Schwartzman's win-loss record on indoor hard-courts is 3-1
• Monfils's win-loss record on indoor hard-courts is 11-2
• Monfils will look to improve his prospects of getting to the ATP Finals

The Frenchman was trailing 2-6 against Dennis Novak in the round of 32. The term "down but not out" can be best used to describe Monfils as he came back roaring to win the next two sets 7-5, 6-3.

Monfils then took out Italian sensation, Jannik Sinner, in the pre-quarterfinals. He then met Slovenian, Aljaz Bedene in the quarterfinals. Number 72, Bedene had won two rounds of qualifying and served 36 aces in his victories against Guido Pella, and Gilles Simon in the round of 32 and 16 respectively.

But his big serve failed in the quarterfinals as he hit only two aces. Monfils, who started off slow bounced back to beat Bedene 7-5, 6-1. A high first-serve percentage of 80 was an added advantage for "La Monf".

Schwartzman, too, has made all the right moves. "Pocket-Rocket", as he is fondly called, started with a bang defeating seasoned doubles player, Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the round of 32.

He stood strong withstanding a barrage of 23 aces from Sam Querrey winning 6-7, 6-4, 7-6 in the pre-quarterfinals. In a battle of rallies, Schwartzman came out on top ousting the second seed, Karen Khachanov 7-6, 6-2 in the quarterfinals.

"Sliderman", as Monfils is fondly called, brings excitement, energy and athleticism while Schwartzman brings power, consistency and fighting spirit.

The fans will find it tough to choose between these two great talents.

Prediction - Gael Monfils to win in three sets

Cover Image Credits - Associated Press