Another hot encounter again?

Despite the cold in Munich, the match between these two men, who have already faced each other three times—once in a Grand Slam and twice in the Davis Cup—promises a lot more heat. The importance of the Davis Cup for these players gives an idea of their level when they’re competing at 100% motivation. As an anecdote, during their Davis Cup match in 2025, Cobolli pulled off a spectacular 17–15 win in the third-set tiebreak. These two players have already produced some spectacular matches. Will that be the case again today? I’m a bit less sure.

The Italian Cobolli seems to be searching for sensations. He is gradually finding his game again, piling up points and wins, like against Comesana in Monte Carlo in an intense atmosphere, but with an average level of play. His first match here in Munich, where he struggled to beat the local player, shows tennis that’s a bit less incisive. He mentions problems with maintaining rhythm and physical condition, recurring issues season after season. He has not yet found the right balance to string tournaments together in a packed schedule. Although these matches are tough, he is slowly becoming more impactful. His first match was a bit better, but Cobolli is still not fully back.

As for his opponent, the Belgian Zizou Bergs, he is proving that he is really establishing himself, with increasingly complete performances. I’ll try to forget his display against the German Zverev in Monte Carlo. Even in difficulty, he never gave up and did his best. Playing against a familiar opponent, he should feel less pressure and make fewer mistakes. His forehand was a problem against the German in Monte Carlo because he tried to do too much with it. I’m therefore expecting a close battle, more than the odds suggest. I already have an idea of the positions I’ll take on this match.