Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Alejandro Tabilo Prediction: A Parisian Clash of Styles; Tsitsipas's Power vs. Tabilo's Tenacity

It is a scintillating encounter featuring World No. 11 Stefanos Tsitsipas against Chilean World No. 22 Alejandro Tabilo in the Round of 32 at the ATP 1000 Paris Masters. Though both players have come here with wins in their last matches, their way to the last 32 had underlined the differing forms. While not at his best, Tsitsipas has steadied a 6-4 record over his last ten matches, while Tabilo has really struggled for consistency with a 4-6 record. Their recent performances and individual playing styles are set to be critical to determining who advances in Paris.

The former champion in the ATP Finals, solid performer on hard courts, he is trying to capitalize on his ranking and experience advantage on the Masters level. Known for his aggressive baseline game and net skills, even though the hard courts of Paris suit Tsitsipas perfectly, he struggled with consistency at the best moments of the season thus far.

Tsitsipas often does well off the back of taking time away from opponents and dictating rallies with his forehand, underpinned by good first-service statistics. The Greek should look to wrap up the first set, which he is likely to win, and where the difference in their game levels can be applied most. His backhand, more often than not a target for opponents, will have to be sound against Tabilo's cross-court punches that can expose the Greek's sometimes vulnerable wing. Most importantly, Tsitsipas comfort at the net can be a tactical tool to short-circuit the rallies and reduce opportunities for Tabilo to grind out rallies.

The coming talent of Tabilo, who has a left-handed style of play that mostly troubles the opponents, now combines his baseline resilience with speed for an edge in stretching points and, ultimately, counter-attacking. Given the recent form of Tabilo, spirited play may still bother Tsitsipas, especially if he manages to capitalize on breaks of momentum.

Tabilo's lefty play will test Tsitsipas, especially on returns. He will win his match if he is successful in nullifying Tsitsipas' forehand to a great extent, especially targeting the Greek's backhand. He should try to extend the rallies, pulling Tsitsipas out wide, trying to exploit any hint of movement fatigue. Speed on the court and the defensive skills he possesses can make life tough on Tsitsipas, making it hard for him to create easy points. If Tabilo can keep his serve solid and capitalize on break-point chances, then maybe he can break Tsitsipas's rhythm and seize momentum.

With the hard court surface of Paris and Tsitsipas's form on courts like that, he should have the upper hand. Tabilo can only bring some energy and flashes of brilliance from time to time, while Tsitsipas is an aggressive baseliner; his game, combined with his net skills, will give him an advantage in this match. The following three more specific forecasts are based on an examination of players' preferences in play style and statistical processing.

Given that Tsitsipas has been somewhat more consistent at Masters-level events and against better opponents, he is the likely victor here. If he's able to establish his forehand early and limit the backhand errors, Tsitsipas should advance to the Round of 16.

Anyone's eye would say that the tenacity of Tabilo and the sometimes lax Tsitsipas would mean a competitive match with enough games to exceed the 20.5 threshold. Tabilo can at least grind out the rallies and test Tsitsipas's patience, meaning each set could be extended into the deeper games.

Historically strong in the first set, Tsitsipas usually brings in a high level of intensity from the very beginning. Therefore, it may take time for him to get used to the power of his opponent. Look to Tsitsipas setting the tone right from the get-go and securing the opening set.

• Stefanos Tsitsipas Wins & Over 19.5 Games @ 1.75 Odds
• Stefanos Tsitsipas Wins First Set & Match @ 1.61 Odds
• Total Sets - 3 @ 2.25 Odds