Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Andrey Rublev: Hamburg Open Preview and Prediction

Second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas squares off against fifth seed Andrey Rublev in an exciting final at the Hamburg Open. 

Tsitsipas outlasted Cristian Garin in three sets in the semifinals. His serve was strong as he smashed 12 aces, 36 winners and converted 75% of his breakpoint opportunities. He ended Garin's record of being unbeaten in five ATP tour semifinals. 

On the other hand, Rublev was too good for the in-form Casper Ruud beating him 6-4 6-2. 

Head to Head record 

Both Tsitsipas and Rublev are tied 2-2 in their head to head record. This is their first meeting on the clay surface. 

Making his debut in Hamburg, Tsitsipas's performance has been impressive. He has constantly played the big points brilliantly to get past the finish line. 

Rublev's formidable forehand has left his opponents clueless. Tsitsipas has a dismal record in finals having lost two ATP Masters 1000 and four ATP 500 finals in his career. 

“It was nerve-wracking, the match was very close and towards the end, I showed great responsibility and took advantage of my strengths," said Tsitsipas after his hard-fought win against Garin. 

"The match was really tough, how many long rallies we had, how many chances both of us had," said Rublev after beating Ruud. 
Both would be gunning for the tile and add to their confidence ahead of the French Open beginning today. Rublev has looked in imperious form after dropping a set against Tommy Paul. Tsitsipas has uplifted his level in the recent matches. 

After losing last year's final to Nikolos Basilashvili, Rublev would be aiming to make amends this time. Tsitsipas would depend on heavy topspin and variation in his shots to trouble Rublev.

Tsitsipas will be aiming to win his second title of 2020 after clinching the Marseille Open. While both players have impressed with their good form, they would have to control their nerves and play fearless tennis to triumph. 

Prediction - Stefanos Tsitsipas to win in three sets 

Featured image credits: firstsportz.com