ATP Finals Day 1 Predictions Including Djokovic vs Rune

Sep 10, 2023; Flushing, NY, USA; Novak Djokovic of Serbia hits a volley against Daniil Medvedev (not pictured) in the men’s singles final in the men’s singles final on day fourteen of the 2023 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports

As the year-end championships begin, the top eight players of the season will compete for the ATP Finals title. The action kicks off with the Green group, featuring world #1 Novak Djokovic. Who will set the tone for their campaign?

ATP Finals Day 1 Predictions

Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Jannik Sinner

Head-to-head: Tsitsipas 5-2 Sinner

Stefanos Tsitsipas previously favored this matchup, but with their head-to-head tied at 1-1 this year, will Jannik Sinner’s recent improvements change the dynamic? Sinner, playing at home, is eager to make an impact after getting plenty of rest following his Paris walkover. Tsitsipas, however, faces uncertainty due to an elbow issue affecting his practice, making Sinner the favorite in this matchup. Is Hubert Hurkacz ready to step in as the alternate if needed? Time will tell, but Tsitsipas seems like the underdog in his group at the moment.

Prediction: Sinner in 3
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Novak Djokovic vs Holger Rune

Head-to-head: Djokovic 2-2 Rune

Holger Rune has historically been a tough matchup for Novak Djokovic, showcasing a well-rounded game that forces the Serbian to work hard for points. Rune’s recent form, reaching the final in Basel and the last eight in Paris, presents a challenge for Djokovic. However, the fast Turin court conditions may hinder Rune’s ability to push Djokovic, as they have not met on such surfaces before. Djokovic’s aggressive post-prime version may prove overwhelming on this surface, as demonstrated last year. Turin’s courts may limit Rune’s ability to transition from defense to offense against Djokovic.

Prediction: Djokovic in 2

Main photo credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports