Italy’s Fabio Fognini takes to the court for a second time at the ATP Rome Masters this week, up against No 11 seed Taylor Fritz on Friday evening.
Can the home hope continue what could very well be his final appearance here in Rome, or will Fritz kick off his campaign with a win? Read on for our Fritz vs Fognini prediction and betting tips.
After defeating Dan Evans in the first round, veteran Fognini described his victory as “salty and sweet”. There certainly were elements of both–nabbing a win in front of his home crowd against the world No 67 was a strong effort. However, his 40 unforced errors and seven double faults left a little to be desired. Improvements will be needed if he’s to have a shot against Fritz today.
For Fritz, he’s been solid over the past few weeks, ever since losing the American No. 1 spot to Ben Shelton. His past two events have seen him final in Munich, and semi-final in Madrid. These are great results, considering clay is Fritz’s weakest surface.
Will we see more of the sensational ‘Claylor’ Fritz on day five of the ATP Rome Masters, or does local star Fognini have an upset up his sleeve? We break down the match-up and give our Fritz vs Fognini tips.
How the Bookies View It: Fairytale Unlikely for Fognini
Bookmakers are widely viewing this as a cakewalk for Fritz, with odds of 1/3 for the American to win. Fognini is a long-shot at 12/5, while the expected score line is 2-0 in favour of Fritz at 1/1.
Recent Head-to-Head: Even, But It’s Been Awhile
Fritz and Fognini have met twice before on the ATP Tour, but not since before the pandemic. Their most recent clash was in Los Cabos, where Fritz won in straight sets. Prior to that, Fognini picked up a three-set win in 2018. The pair have never faced each other on clay, however.
Anything Else Catch the Eye?
The serve will be a big part of this match. For Fognini in his opener against Evans, his numbers weren’t great. The Italian only made 56 percent of first serves, and was in the red on his second serve points won. Add in seven double faults, and the score line only looked the way it did because Fognini was able to save eight breakpoints. Fritz will undoubtedly be looking to bring his usual, solid serving to this clash, then capitalise on any inconsistencies from Fognini’s end.
Fritz hasn’t had the best of times in Rome over the years. Last year saw him crash out in his first match to world No 101 Yannik Hanfmann. However, his clay court form has improved markedly since then, and he’ll be eager to put these demons behind him.
Fritz vs Fognini Betting Tips & Predictions
We agree with the bookies that this should be a routine victory for the American. Fognini, at age 36 and having just played a three-setter yesterday, won’t have it in him to trouble an improved Fritz.
- Fritz to win @ 1/3
- Frtiz to win 2-0 @ 1/1
Fritz and Fognini take to the Grandstand court fourth on Friday, so get your bets in before then if you want to capitalise on what we say should be a straightforward victory.
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