Mertens in straight sets.
If you've been paying attention to the world of tennis, you're well aware that Elise Mertens and Elisabetta Cocciaretto are about to have a go at it at the China Open. Now, I'm not a bookie - I just call the shots as I see them, but there are a few things we need to consider here.
Despite a recent hiccup against the powerhouse Sabalenka, Mertens has been showing some finesse in her straight victory over Zakharova and a fiery win against the combative Keys. Her road has been ridden with victories against strong competition.
On the other hand, our young spitfire Cocciaretto has had her share of ups and downs. Yes, she managed a recent victory over Rodionova but Pavlyuchenkova and Avanesyan proved to be a bit too much.
Adding fuel to the fire, the tournament seeding isn't exactly playing in Cocciaretto's favor. She is going into this match unseeded while Mertens has a seed of 24.
Their past encounter was a clear victory for Mertens as well. Cocciaretto tried to bring the heat but Mertens served up a tidy love set, winning 2 sets to 0.
Now, let's be clear, the tennis court isn't a predictable place. Balls bounce in strange ways sometimes. Yet, from where I'm sitting, it looks like Mertens is holding the more powerful racket entering the China Open.
Albert's Prediction: Mertens in straight sets.