Transitioning from one surface to another is never easy, even for the pros. Yesterday Djokovic and Berdych struggled with their moment and were both beaten by their far less experienced opponents. The red dirt throws you challenges that take some time getting used to, especially after months on hard courts.
Today Federer plays Bautista-Agut, Nadal faces Thiem and Murray takes on Paire. All tricky opponents for the trio that has dominated tennis together with Djokovic for so long.
Federer looked solid against Garcia-Lopez, but must still be carrying some rust around his usually shining armour. Bautista-Agut on the other hand has had a great year so far with two titles already. He should be tricky for the Swiss on paper, but Federer has never dropped a set against in him four meeting so despite the rust, I pick Federer as the winner.
Dominic Thiem is going up against the King of Clay. But surely the king isn’t as confident about his throne as he has been previous years and Thiem beat him in a tight three-setter in Buenos Aires earlier this year. I think Nadal loves playing in Monte Carlo too much to lose this match, but it might very well go three sets. The only thing that’s for granted is that the balls will suffer from a lot of RPMs! Nadal in three.
Murray hasn’t had a great year, but had a great season on the dirt last year and looks pump to reverse his recent fortunes. However, Paire is a tricky player, especially when he’s feeling the ball well and looking positive. Odds are on Murray, but if Paire doesn’t beat himself early on, I see this going the distance. Murray in three sets however.
