The ATP 250 Nordea Open is in full swing, showcasing some top-tier talent as players gear up for the Paris Olympics. We've reached the quarter-finals, and the draws are looking exciting, especially the quarter-final showdown between Rafael Nadal and Mariano Navone.
With these pre-Olympic tournaments, there are plenty of betting opportunities. We’ve sifted through the options and picked out the best bets for you.
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Player Form: Nadal Looking Sharp
22-time Grand Slam champion Nadal has proved his worth over the years. Nadal hasn't been around much this season, but he's still managed a 9-5 win-loss record. Sure, he had a first-round exit at this year's French Open, but let's not forget the man has claimed 14 French Open titles.
In Bastad, Nadal took down Leo Borg in the first round and followed it up with a win against Cameron Norrie in the second, securing his spot in the quarter-finals. You cannot expect anything less from the “King of Clay”.
On the other hand, Mariano Navone has been hustling to make a name for himself. The 23-year-old had a 13-11 win-loss record coming into this week and has shown his potential with several appearances in the semi-finals and finals of ATP Tours.
In Bastad, he got a first-round bye and then took down Sumit Nagal in the second round to secure his spot in the quarter-finals.
How the Bookies View It: Nadal Dominating
Bookmaker Betfred is favouring Nadal to be the victor of this encounter, making him the favourite at 4/11. On the other hand, Navone is sitting at 1//5 to win. Set betting suggests Nadal winning the encounter 2-0, with this result paying 1/1.
Recent Head-to-Head: Nothing to See Here
Nadal and Navone have never come across each other before on the ATP Tour.
Anything Else Catch the Eye?
Rafael Nadal kept his unbeaten streak alive in Bastad on Thursday, clinching a 6-4, 6-4 victory over Cameron Norrie to reach his second ATP quarterfinal of the season at the Nordea Open.
As one of tennis's biggest names, Nadal is teaming up with Alcaraz in the Paris Olympics doubles, and he's looking to get as much clay court time as possible before then.
Navone, on the other hand, has been steadily rising. The young Argentine has been striving to make a splash this season, but it hasn't quite clicked yet.
Navone is a real up-and-comer, giving it his all to make a name for himself. But facing off against a 22-time Grand Slam champion like Nadal can break even the bravest spirits. Our prediction? Nadal takes this one in straight sets.
- Nadal to win 2-0 @
- Nadal wins first set @ 4/9
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