ATP Estoril Day 4 Predictions Including Casper Ruud vs Botic van de Zandschulp

Arthur Fils vs Cristian Garin

Head-to-head: First meeting

Arthur Fils had a horrible time in South America earlier this year, but back in Europe he should be dangerous on the clay again. In the opening round this week he ended the career of Joao Sousa and while it wasn’t a perfect match from him, he certainly seems like a player who could even win the whole thing if he catches good rhythm. Cristian Garin is relatively tricky but at the moment doesn’t seem to have the same intensity as a few years back.
Prediction: Fils in 3

Richard Gasquet vs Dominic Thiem

Head-to-head: Thiem 3-2

Richard Gasquet was limping around the court in his final qualifying round against Lucas Pouille, but was very fortunate to get a lucky loser spot directly into the second round. Maybe these few days of rest will allow him to recover, but he’s had a noticeable physical decline this year. Dominic Thiem still hasn’t regained his pre-injury forehand and maybe never will. In this match he might not need it though as it seems that sticking with Gasquet for about two hours should also be a path to victory.
Prediction: Thiem in 3

Casper Ruud vs Botic van de Zandschulp

Head-to-head: van de Zandschulp 3-2

When Casper Ruud came to Estoril last year, he was desperate to return to form and managed to do just that by winning the title. This time he’s moreso seeking a continuation of what he’s been doing so far this year with plenty of solid results under his belt. Botic van de Zandschulp leads him 3-2 in the head-to-head, including one win on clay. Is that relevant for their match on Thursday? Probably not and you’d expect the Norwegian to power through anyway.
Prediction: Ruud in 2