tennis | Thursday, April 27, 2023 7:46 AM

Thursday Tennis Best Bet: ATP Madrid, Chris O’Connell vs Filip Krajinovic

Jon Reid

Chris O’Connell vs Filip Krajinovic Best Bet: Thursday, April 27th

Some shaky stuff in the second set from Oscar Otte, as blown opportunities cost him, but he was in complete control in both the first and third to bring home both bets on Wednesday.

For Thursday, we’re still in the first round for the men’s draw and we’ll preview the contest between Chris O’Connell and Filip Krajinovic.

In this article:

Chris O’Connell vs Filip Krajinovic Preview
Chris O’Connell vs Filip Krajinovic Best Bet

Chris O’Connell vs Filip Krajinovic Preview

April 27th, 14:30 (UK Time)

Really fun contrast in players here, with one that has a clay-court game predicated on consistency and point construction and a more talented hitter with comfort on the dirt, power and can hit a heavier ball.

The former is O’Connell, the Australian that has spent the last few years polishing his game while toiling away on the lower level Challenger Tour.

The latter, Krajinovic, who has been relatively disappointing in recent times, but has a strong serve, big forehand and the ability to push his opposition well behind the baseline with his groundstrokes.

If this were simply about ability and talent, Krajinovic would be an easy selection.

When you take form, fitness and the more consistent level of play into account, however, the prices don’t seem as ridiculous.

I think there is a way to back Krajinovic, without needing to rely on him to win two sets in a potentially long affair.

Chris O’Connell vs Filip Krajinovic Best Bet

In terms of value, I much prefer Krajinovic to win the first set than to win the match outright.

It’s not nearly as expensive as it is in many matches to take that position and it’s smarter in this match than in many others.

Krajinovic has never been the most fit player and it’s been even more apparent this season. He’s tailed off consistently in second and third sets and retired once already this year.

The likelihood of him coming back from a set down is incredibly small.

Yet with his clay pedigree and weapons in the altitude of Madrid, he’s the better player in this matchup.

For me, that means backing him to succeed early at underdog odds is the smart play.