In the quarterfinals of the ATP 250 event in Auckland, several exciting matchups are set to unfold as players aim for a spot in the semifinals.
In the first featured match, American Ben Shelton, holding a head-to-head advantage of 1-0 against Argentina’s Sebastian Baez, looks to bounce back from a challenging stretch where he has lost three of his last five matches. This week, Shelton kicked off his season with a solid victory over Comesana, winning in straight sets while showcasing his ability to save six breakpoints. Conversely, Baez is riding a wave of success, boasting five consecutive wins, including a commendable performance at the United Cup last week where he won all three singles matches. Baez’s impressive journey continued in Auckland, where he overcame his opening set struggle against Nava to win in three tightly contested sets, followed by a straight-sets victory over Brooksby.
The bookmakers have made Shelton the favorite, and many analysts agree due to his superior serve and powerful forehand. A suggested value bet for this matchup is for Shelton to cover a games handicap of -3.5 at odds of 1.83.
Next up is Eliot Spizzirri facing off against Fabian Marozsan, marking their first match against each other. Spizzirri comes into this match with four wins in his last five contests. He successfully qualified for the tournament, defeating both Mannarino and Borges in straight sets. On the other hand, Marozsan has had a tougher time recently, with three losses in his last five matches. Despite this, he showed resilience by overcoming Monfils in three sets this week and defeating Ruud in straight sets.
While bookmakers label this match as a toss-up, some analysts believe that Marozsan’s experience could play a decisive role. A recommended value bet is Marozsan to win at odds of 1.80.
Lastly, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who has seen recent success with four wins in his last five matches, takes on Jakub Mensik, who also has three wins in his last five outings. Mpetshi Perricard’s journey this week involved defeating Bautista-Agut and Norrie in Auckland, illustrating his strong form. Meanwhile, Mensik showcased resilience, particularly in the opening match of the tournament, where he defeated Medjedovic after saving 11 out of 13 breakpoints.
Though bookmakers see Mpetshi Perricard as the underdog, he has previously bested Mensik in Brisbane under similar conditions, suggesting a competitive matchup. A recommended value bet is for Mpetshi Perricard to cover a +1.5 games handicap, offering promising potential at 1.83.
With all players keen for victory, these quarterfinal matches are expected to deliver thrilling tennis action. Fans can look forward to an exciting day of tennis in Auckland.