Casper Ruud vs Jordan Thompson Prediction: Head-to-Head Tiebreaker; Ruud Seeks Redemption in Paris Against In-Form Thompson

As the ATP 1000 Paris Masters near Round of 32, Casper Ruud, ATP #8, is going to clash with Jordan Thompson, ATP #28. It was expected to be an intense fight because the two come in with contrasting recent displays in head-to-head encounters that has Thompson slightly ahead, 4-3. The previous time saw Thompson seal a convincing straight-sets win in Tokyo. Now the turn of Ruud to make a difference on Indoor Hard Courts of Paris.

Ruud enters this match having had a torrid season and a 3-7 mark in his last ten matches, having suffered an infuriating loss to Roberto Bautista Agut of Basel. A great player on the clay, Ruud has simply not had his form translate onto the hard courts and is searching for a big win at the end of 2024 to help his ranking points and confidence.

The big weapons in Ruud's armoury are his baseline consistency and heavy topspin forehand, which he usually utilizes to push opponents back. To nullify Thompson's attacking style of play, Ruud needs to step further into the court, taking the ball earlier and putting pressure to maintain the tempo. His backhand, although reliable, is a less aggressive shot, and might be picked on by Thompson, hence Ruud's need to elevate his shot variety and placement becomes an important factor.

Meanwhile, Thompson has built up his steam as he posted a balance 5-5 record in his last ten matches and had a nice win against Pedro Martinez. The latest form makes him formidable on hard surfaces that complement his power-driven game.

Thompson does the best when he is able to play quickly and aggressively, using his serve and forehand to punch through shorter points. In this match with Ruud, he will try to unsettle him by coming into the net frequently and adding in slice backhands in hopes of breaking up the opponent's rhythm. Past success against Ruud will embolden Thompson to push hard from the beginning, likely trying to take time away with attacking returns and avoid long rallies that might allow Ruud to get back into control.

Thompson's form of late and his good fortunes against Ruud on hard court bring an added layer of belief in his approach. As for Ruud, the form has been inconsistent; inside the top ten he may be, but his performances on the fast courts have lacked conviction this season. Thompson's net play and strong serve will test Ruud's defense, especially if the Australian can sustain pressure with a high percentage of first-serve accuracy.

Still, Ruud has a chance if he can seize early control, working Thompson back with his topspin forehand and setting up for winners. If Ruud is to win, his backhand will have to be rock-solid if he is to shut out Thompson's opportunities to dominate with his forehand.

• Jordan Thompson (+2.5) Games Handicap @ 1 612 Odds
• Over 22.5 Games @ 1.71 Odds
• Jordan Thompson Wins @ 2.20 Odds