Miami Masters Tips: Get on the Dol

Events / Ben Caudell / 28 March 2011 /

" class="free_bet_btn" rel="external" onclick="javascript: pageTracker._trackPageview('/G4/inline-freebet');" target="_blank">

Alexandr Dolgopolov in action

"Dolgopolov is currently at an all-time high of 23 and should no longer be regarded as a promising player, but instead a top performer who can compete on every surface."

Rising Ukrainian can edge ahead of inconsistent Frenchman, says Ben Caudell

Alexandr Dolgopolov (UKR) v Jo Wilfried Tsonga (FRA)
Jo Wilfried Tsonga and Alexandr Dolgopolov are all set for what should be a fiery late night encounter on the Stadium Court this evening, with the winner likely to face Rafael Nadal in the fourth round.

If this is anywhere near as good as their first two meetings we are in for a real treat. in their first clash last summer at Wimbledon, Tsonga prevailed in five sets. They met again at the Australian Open this year which the Ukrainian took in a five set epic.

We are all aware of the Tsonga's explosive power game and the excitement he brings to the tennis court has generated a huge amount of support from players and fans alike. However, often plagued by physical issues, Tsonga has again been inconsistent this year and looked out of sorts against his second round opponent Teimuraz Gabashvili ranked 61 places lower, eventually taking the match 6-3 6-7 6-3. These inconsistencies were also in evidence with a lacklustre performance against an out of form Xavier Malisse at Indian Wells last week that resulted in a second round loss for the Frenchman after receiving a bye in round one.

Dolgopolov, who has a 15-7 record this season, is continuing his ascent towards the top of the world rankings. The 22-year-old is currently at an all-time high of 23 and should no longer be regarded as a promising player, but instead a top performer who can compete on every surface.

Having reached the quarter-finals of the Australian Open earlier in the year, including wins over Robin Soderling and today's opponent Tsonga, Dolgopolov will be confident in his ability to beat the Frenchman for a second time today. The brilliant shot-maker has a decent record against big servers and his game is more suited to the humid, windy conditions of Miami than Tsonga's.

Finally, Dolgopolov is making his debut appearance in Miami so has no points to defend and given his better current form, my money is with the Ukrainian.

Recommended Bets
Back Dolgopolov @ [1.73] to win match
Back Over 22.5 Games @ [1.95]

'.$sign_up['title'].'

'; } } ?>