by Grigor Dimitrov and Tommy Paul are trying to catch up at the ATP Race to Turin this week. But the story of the event at the ATP Stockholm Open was undeniably Stan Wawrinka reaching his first semi-final in well over a year. It’s time to see if he can really move on and potentially win the title here. Who do you think will reach the final?
Predictions for the ATP semi-finals in Stockholm
Grigor Dimitrov vs Tallon Griekspoor
Head-to-head: Dimitrov 1-0 Griekspoor
Grigor Dimitrov beat Tallon Griekspoor very comfortably at the US Open this year, a match that doesn’t reflect how tough the Dutchman can often be on the top players. Seems like this one should be a lot closer. Dimitrov loves this venue with a title in 2013 and two other finals (2014, 2017) and still plays well indoors after all these years. But Griekspoor also did a great job this week, breaking Jacob Fearnley’s streak and eliminating Casper Ruud. It would be tempting to side with the underdog here, but given the recent encounter and the way the Bulgarian defeated Dominic Stricker on Friday, he has to be given a slight edge.
Prediction: Dimitrov in 3
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Stan Wawrinka vs Tommy Paul
Head-to-head: Wawrinka 1-1 Paul
Stan Wawrinka was only 7-16 years old when he came to Stockholm this year, but now he’s rolling back the years. Indoor courts were not his favorite playground in his prime, and at this stage in his career he was starting to play to his strengths a bit more. The successful first serve is still intact and he now absolutely needs to be at the top of the points. So far he’s smashing the ball and everything is going in. How much energy does he have left? Tommy Paul has the athleticism to force the veteran into some intense rallies and should also be able to run down the clock fairly effectively. Wawrinka will need this vintage level again to somehow get through.
Prediction: Paul in 3
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
