Reunion!

The two protagonists faced each other not so long ago, two weeks ago in Monte Carlo, in a fairly tight match. The Chilean, A. Tabilo, almost won it in straight sets. He managed to take the match into a very hard‑fought tie-break, despite the fact that it was his opponent who was playing a bit better in that second set, going after the points and being aggressive. It was a fine performance from both players, with Lehecka pulling through thanks to his mental resilience and the great attitude he showed throughout the Monte Carlo tournament.

After this tournament, he decided not to play in the Munich event in order to rest, and I think that was a smart choice on his part. The Chilean, for his part, went to play in Munich and lost in his first round to the Brazilian Fonseca, who really dominated him.

Today, we have a Chilean coming into the tournament off his first win here against the Frenchman Valentin Royer, and an opponent who still needs to get going. The biggest difference compared to Monte Carlo is of course the conditions in Madrid; in their Monte Carlo match, in which his opponent took control with his heavy shots and aggressive play, we can reasonably say that he’ll have a bit more of an edge here, although it also gives more weight to the quality of the Chilean’s serve. I think his opponent still has to be the favorite, but not at any price; the odds will decide whether I suggest a bet or not.