Game-wise, Ruud is a major underdog. But he does have one thing he can cling to: Sinner’s shaky fitness this week.
We know that he can struggle with cramps in high heat and humidity. In Rome, though, the temperatures have been moderate, but he has still been gasping for breath on changeovers, making odd errors, and trying to end points abnormally quickly. So far, the man known as the Fox has survived, as he usually do. But Ruud will know that if he can remain steady—stay in his lane, as he says—and make Sinner work, there could be benefits as the match moves along.
The question is, can he keep Sinner from ending the rallies early, and running away with the match before his physical issues arise? I’m betting he can’t. Sinner is human, but he’s the best human on a tennis court right now. Winner: Sinner
