🎾 ATP Barcelona: Rublev vs De Jong

🎾 ATP Barcelona: Rublev vs De Jong – Match Preview

🧠 Form & Context

🇳🇱 Jesper de Jong

• 📈 Red-hot on clay: 10–5 on clay in 2025; semifinalist in Girona Challenger and qualified with wins over Harris and Rinderknech.
• 🚀 ATP breakthrough: This is his first ATP 500 main draw appearance, and he's playing with confidence and momentum.
• 🎾 Clay comfort: 8 wins in his last 10 clay matches, including ATP-level victories in Marrakech.

🇷🇺 Andrey Rublev

• ⚖️ Mixed form: 10–8 overall in 2025; reached R16 in Monte Carlo with wins over Monfils and Shelton before falling to Fils.
• 🔥 Proven clay success: 2023 Monte Carlo champion; owns a 137–79 career record on clay.
• 📍 Barcelona record: Best result was QF in 2021; also suffered R2 exits in past appearances.

🔍 Match Breakdown

This is a momentum-versus-ranking clash: De Jong is on fire, while Rublev is hunting for rhythm. The Dutchman will try to extend rallies and use depth to disrupt Rublev’s timing, particularly targeting the backhand wing.

However, Rublev’s flat, high-octane groundstrokes—especially the forehand—can pierce through the court and put De Jong under pressure early. If Rublev finds his range, he could dictate play and avoid prolonged baseline exchanges.

Expect De Jong to hang tough and possibly snatch a set if Rublev starts slow, but the Russian’s experience and firepower should ultimately carry him through.

🔮 Prediction

Pick: Rublev in 3 sets

De Jong’s form makes this no walkover, but Rublev has too many weapons if he executes under pressure.