In the ATP 250 Belgrade final, Serbian talent Hamad Medjedovic faces off against Canada's ace, Denis Shapovalov. Coming into the final match, either one of them seems to be in form and intensity since Medjedovic is on a four-match winning streak, while Shapovalov is on a six-match winning streak. In the tournament, Medjedovic has been the dark horse who has managed to knock out a couple of higher-ranked players, one of which was a nail-biting victory from his compatriot, Laslo Djere. On the other side of the draw, Shapovalov's gradual rise has seen him destroy Jiri Lehecka in straight sets to show some rejuvenation in his game.
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The world No. 156 Medjedovic has grasped the Belgrade Open for his chance to prove himself at the ATP level. His knack for responding to adversity was on full display in the semifinals, when he came back from a set down to defeat Djere. Shapovalov has come into the match as the world number 78 and has finally found the rhythm of his up-and-down season as he prevails with clinical efficiency. With the title in contention, the more experienced Shapovalov goes up against raw hunger and home-court advantage in Medjedovic for what promises to be an electrifying contest.
Tactical Approach
With a strong baseline approach, Medjedovic grounds his game on consistent forehand winners that have served him well on indoor courts. Without the ability to take away Shapovalov, who can set his match tempo, he is forced to serve with variance and be aggressive off of second-serve returns. Most noticeably, with his heavy one-handed backhand, the game plan will be to apply pressure on the rallies with Shapovalov trying to get him off the court, working in his opponent's backhand. Drawing Medjedovic out wide presents the opportunities for forehand and limits control over the net where he has flexed his muscles in recent matches.
Expert Betting Tips
With Shapovalov's recent resurgence and good run of victories, he will go into the final as the slight favorite, but the determination of Medjedovic will be considerable, let alone the advantage of playing on home turf. Shapovalov's experience in high-pressure matches might give him the edge.
This means both players performing well and going with momentum, and thus one should expect an extended match into three sets closely. The over 22.5 games market in this one is somewhat value considering the fighting spirit of both.
Riding off the energy of the home crowd, Medjedovic could really come out firing in the first set. Shapovalov is a strong player, but sometimes needs some time to get his feet wet in the match.
- Over 22 Games @ 1.68 Odds
- Betway Odds Unavailable
- Denis Shapovalov Wins @ 1.36 Odds
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