Semi-final – 20 July
Alex Michelson 66/100 | Reily Opelka 23/20
Alex Michelson really made his bones in these championships, essentially choosing to turn pro after his runner-up finish here last season. And he has enjoyed a fairly decent first full year on tour, reaching his fourth quarterfinal of the year in these championships.
And the big-serving American has actually looked brilliant this week, giving us a little taste of what could be in store for him with a little more tour experience.
He was sensational against former champion Cressey, hitting 20 winners against just six unforced errors in a fairly faultless display (winning 77% of his first-serve points in the process).
He wasn’t quite as dominant against Kovacevic but still won by the same margin (he curiously won both his matches four and four). The third seed currently sits 2nd in the Live Race to Jeddah rankings and a strong showing this week will all but secure his place at those NextGen Finals.
It has been an exceptionally long road back to full health for veritable giant Reily Opelka. The gargantuan-serving American has barely played in two seasons after terrible injury issues. He first underwent a successful hip surgery but was then hampered by unsuccessful wrist surgery.
He returned to action briefly towards the end of last season, pulling out of a Challenger event after just one match. But he has looked far more like his old self after accepting a wildcard to play in this event, picking up three successive three-set wins to reach a morale-boosting semifinal.
His quarter-final win against McDonald was pure Opelka (he served 27 aces to power his way into the final four). A true serving behemoth, Opelka is a unique talent who adds another dimension to any tournament he is involved in.
The Verdict: Opelka to win in three sets 38/10
This will be their first career meeting. This could be a baptism of fire for the 19-year-old Michelson, who is going to be exposed to the sheer helplessness of facing Opelka’s serve for the first time.
That being said, Opelka might also find it tough to make an impact against Michelson’s dynamic serve and decisive volleying. All in all, I just have the feeling that Opelka could be in for a fairytale week. But this should be a close one.