Timofey Skatov vs Hubert Hurkacz Prediction: No doubt about Hurkacz win

Analysis and prediction for the US Open round 128 match between Timofey Skatov and Hubert Hurkacz on the 27 August 2024.

Skatov is a young up-and-comer known more for his performance on the Challenger circuit. As low as he was ranked, however, Skatov has been on an upward trajectory; he qualified for the US Open, which speaks to his hard work.

Skatov's game is built around the baseline, grinding, and consistency. He frustrates others with defensive skills and counter-punching abilities. However, lacking a big serve and aggressive shot-making hurts his overall potency against higher-ranked players on quicker surfaces.

He's a top-10 player now, and Hurkacz heads into the US Open in decent form, having bounced back after showing the resolve and class needed in the last two tournaments.

Hurkacz's game is built around a strong serve and aggressive play from the baseline. On the quickest surfaces, like the hard courts of the US Open, he is able to deliver an extremely effective serve. However, in recent matches, it has exhibited a much better ability to handle pressure situations—a factor integral to success in big Slam matches.

The key for Hurkacz will be keeping points short through serve and aggressive groundstrokes. He will want to be able to move Skatov around the court, not getting engaged in too many long rallies where Skatov might feel more comfortable.

But the best opportunity for Skatov is to be able to extend the rallies and see if he gets the result of wearing down Hurkacz in the longer points. Indeed, he will have to serve brilliantly, benefiting from mistakes he is able to force out of Hurkacz if he is to be competitive.

The overall picture is too one-sided in favor of Hurkacz, and it should be an easy win for him unless Skatov can significantly upgrade his level of performance.

• Hubert Hurkacz (-5.5) Games Handicap at 1.6 Odds
• Under 34.5 Games at 1.85 Odds
• Hurbert Hurkacz Win 3-0 at 2.10 Odds