ATP Sydney/ATP Auckland: Semi Finals

ATP Sydney Feature Previews

Daniil Medvedev v Fabio FogniniIt’s been the week of the youngsters in Sydney and we could have a final with a combined age of 40. Medvedev has come through the qualifiers this week winning 5 matches in 5 days and dropping just a single set. The key to his success has been his 1st serve. He has won 90% of 1st serve points across his last 3 matches which is simply astonishing when you consider that those opponents are all ranked in the top 55 – Kohlschreiber, Donaldson and Lorenzi. He has taken full advantage of anything short and has given his opponents nothing to work with. He will be far too consistent from the baseline and Fognini will not be able to get a look in. It will lead to a number of errors from the Italian and will provide Medvedev with an opportunity at claiming his maiden ATP title. 
Best Bet: Medvedev WIN ($2.00)

Alex De Minaur v Benoit PaireThe Wolf wants to thank the bookies for giving De Minaur no respect yesterday and they continue to do the same. He won 39% of return points against Lopez yesterday including a massive 57% of points on the Spaniards second ball. He has been a brick wall on the baseline and none of his opponents have been able to hit through him. Tonight he takes on a man with a glaring weakness and he will capitalise. The Paire forehand is prone to completely breaking down and De Minaur is sure to target that wing. Look for him to go up the line with the backhand and close the net where possible. The fairy tale will continue!
Best Bet: De Minaur WIN ($1.91)

ATP Auckland Feature Previews

Robin Haase v Roberto Bautista-AgutHaase beat our boy Gojowczyk yesterday but it had more to do with the German converting just 2 of 10 break point opportunities. Bautista-Agut will not be as kind and the Spaniard is winning a huge amount of points behind both his 1st and 2nd serves. Haase will look to serve big and use his forehand but as we saw against Vesely and Johnson, Bautista-Agut can defend as well as anyone on tour. His ability to deflect and turn defence into attack will determine the result.
Best Bet: Sets Bautista-Agut 2-0 ($1.75)

David Ferrer v Juan Martin Del PotroYesterday The Wolf told us that Del Potro will dominate on serve and he did just that. He is yet to face a single break point in the tournament and a ageing Ferrer will struggle to deal with the sheer weight of shot from the Argentine. Ferrer may lead the H2H but Del Potro has won their two most recent meetings – both at majors and both in straight sets. Ferrer might be able to hang in there early but Del Potro will take full control in the middle and latter stages.
Best Bet: Del Potro -3.5 ($1.80)