The 2024 ATP Tiriac Open in Bucharest, Romania is a little behind on its schedule with the bottom half already into the quarterfinal round, while the top half of the draw will be on double duty (we’ll edit these matchups in once they’re set on Friday). For now, 17-year-old prodigy Joao Fonseca will be trying to lock up his Roland Garros qualifying spot against Alejandro Tabilo. Who do you think will advance?
ATP Bucharest Quarterfinal Predictions
Corentin Moutet vs Marton Fucsovics
Head-to-head: 1-1
This is a bounce-back year for Corentin Moutet, now that his wrist is healthy and he’s back to hitting two-handed backhands. A tough season like the one he had in 2023 can even make him a more resilient player and the 24-year-old could sure use some tenacity. This seems like a fairly even matchup with Marton Fucsovics being tougher to break down than the previous two opponents of Moutet. But after all, the Hungarian is also reliant on his aggressive forehand ball-striking and will need to keep that up against all the junkballs thrown at him here. Perhaps we can call Moutet a slight favorite, but the edge is marginal.
Prediction: Moutet in 3
Joao Fonseca vs Alejandro Tabilo
Head-to-head: First meeting
Joao Fonseca is the hottest prospect in men’s tennis at the moment and he’s showing exactly why this week. Other than his incredible ball-striking talent, he’s also been hitting with a bit more margin and utilizing the dropshot smarter than before. Alejandro Tabilo is not going to be an easy opponent, but it’s just one match against a rather inconsistent player. Maybe Fonseca can just sneak his way into the Roland Garros qualifying draw? It would be a fantastic achievement for the 17-year-old, who was still contemplating going the college route at the beginning of the season and has already picked up so many incredible wins and results since.
Prediction: Fonseca in 3
Main Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports
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