2021 BMW Open Semi-Final – Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Casper Ruud Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
Where is Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Casper Ruud taking place? MTTC Iphitos, Munich, Germany
When is Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Casper Ruud on and what time does it start? Saturday 1st May, 2021 – Not before 14:00 (UK)
What surface is Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Casper Ruud being played on? Clay (outdoor)
Where can I get tickets for Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Casper Ruud? This event will take place without spectators
What channel is Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Casper Ruud on? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Nikoloz Basilashvili vs Casper Ruud in the UK? Tennis TV subscribers can stream the match live
THE PREDICTION
Both Nikoloz Basilashvili and Casper Ruud had their quarter-finals delayed overnight by rain on Friday and had to finish them off early on Saturday. At the time of writing it is unclear exactly when this semi-final will take place, although certainly not before 2pm (UK) so take that into consideration before selection here. When they do eventually take to court it will be a for a first ever tour-level meeting between the pair and both are seasoned clay-court players. World number 35 Basilashvili has two ATP titles on clay to world number 24 Ruud’s one but the 22-year-old Nord is emerging as a specialist to beat on this surface for at least the next five years. Neither player has dropped a set yet but this will be their toughest challenge by some way on Saturday, particularly as they will have so little time to prepare and recover from the second sets of their quarter-finals played this morning. Given that there are so many outside factors here, it could be a match worth leaving alone. However, on recent performances Casper Ruud looks the favourite for the Estoril Open title and he should be able to win this match in straight-sets. Take him as outright, though, for a safer pick.
