Grigor Dimitrov vs Jannik Sinner: Rome Masters Preview and Prediction

15th seed Grigor Dimitrov sets up a riveting clash against teen sensation Jannik Sinner in the pre-quarterfinals at the Rome Masters. 

Dimitrov began his campaign with a convincing 7-5 6-1 win over homeboy, Gianluca Mager. He demolished Yoshihito Nishioka 6-1 6-0 in the round of 32. The Bulgarian has been getting success on clay with a superior first-serve winning percentage and an impressive breakpoint conversion.

On the other hand, Sinner dispatched Benoit Paire 6-2 6-1. After getting defeated by Stefanos Tsitsipas in last year's Rome Open, the Italian turned the tables this time stunning the World number six, 6-1 6-7 6-2 in the round of 32. 

Head to Head record 

The two players are meeting each other on the tour for the first time. Having lost in the first round in last year's tournament to Jan-Lennard Struff, Dimitrov would look for a deep run this time. 

"When you're young, in one year you can do a lot of things, I think I have improved everything, especially the serve, I served a little bit better, changing rotation and everything", said Sinner after emerging victorious against Tsitsipas.

Both players are exciting to watch when they get going as they are blessed with scintillating shot-making ability. Despite tasting immense success on hard-courts, Dimitrov has struggled to replicate consistency on the red dirt. He will depend on his formidable forehand mixed with topspin to trouble Sinner. His shaky second serve needs to be more consistent. 

Climbing the ranks swiftly from the group of the Next-Gen, Sinner is an extremely promising player. Having received admiration from legends like John McEnroe, he must do justice to his enormous talent. 

With two continuous straight-set wins to his credit, Dimitrov will look to continue the juggernaut. With his solid serve and control over rallies, Sinner would be a tough nut to crack. The Italian needs to target Dimitrov's vulnerable backhand and keep the points short. He would have to defend out of his skin if Dimitrov finds his rhythm quickly. 

Prediction - Jannik Sinner to win in three sets

Featured image credits: sofascore.com