Jack Draper vs. Adrian Mannarino

Aug 31, 2022; Flushing, NY, USA; Jack Draper of Great Britain serves against Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada on day three of the 2022 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

As the last regular season final unfolds, Jack Draper goes head-to-head with Adrian Mannarino for the ATP Sofia title. Draper, in a bid for his first ATP title, has made an impressive late-season comeback following an injury-riddled season. Meanwhile, veteran Mannarino seeks his fifth ATP title, continuing to display top-level performance late in his career. At LWOT, we provide our prediction and analysis for the final. Who will come out on top?

ATP Sofia Final Prediction

Jack Draper vs. Adrian Mannarino

Head-to-Head: First meeting

Both players have encountered minimal pressure en route to the ATP Sofia final. Mannarino, the No. 2 seed, overcame a slight setback by winning against Patel Kotov in the semifinals following an initial bye. Draper, on the other hand, has sailed through the tournament without dropping a set, notably defeating the No. 1 seed Lorenzo Musetti and the No. 3 seed Jan-Lennard Struff. With Mannarino entering the tournament on a three-match losing streak and Draper’s confidence from an ATP Challenger Tour victory, the stage is set for an exhilarating encounter.

Both players possess lefty talent and exhibit similar game styles on the court. Draper boasts a slightly faster serve compared to Mannarino, but both excel in serving accuracy. Additionally, there is a contrast in their groundstroke styles, with Draper’s forehand delivering plenty of spin, while Mannarino employs flat, low-bouncing groundstrokes to maneuver opponents with deft angles.

Draper, after suffering a shoulder injury following the French Open, seems to possess the talent required to secure an ATP title. However, with nine matches within two weeks, his physical condition becomes paramount. Mannarino, known for his consistent game, must avoid succumbing to Draper’s aggressive play, given the latter’s impressive winning streak.

Ultimately, confidence will be the deciding factor in this match. Draper appears to be on a renaissance journey and is likely to capitalize on his motivation and form to clinch his maiden ATP title in a three-set thriller. While Mannarino’s consistency may pose a challenge, Draper’s firepower could give him the edge.

Prediction: Draper in 3

Main Photo Credit: Jerry Lai – USA TODAY Sports