While the spotlight has been on Ben Shelton and Coco Gauff among the top American players, Aleksander Kovacevic is slowly rising in ranks. The 25-year-old Serbian descent has entered the top 100 of the ATP rankings and poses a major challenge to the top players with his ferocious display. He is currently in Houston to play in the US Men’s Clay Court Championship.

Kovacevic will look to make it to the last eight of the tournament as he takes on Australia’s Jordan Thompson next. It is set to be an exciting battle with both players showing signs of promise in 2024.

Aleksander Kovacevic vs Jordan Thompson: Preview

Earlier this year, Kovacevic won his maiden match at the Grand Slam level when he defeated Alejandro Tabilo in the first round of the Australian Open. He carried his form further and made it to the last eight in Los Cabos, eventually bowing out against Stefanos Tsitsipas. Although he couldn’t excel in the Sunshine Double, losing in the first round of both the Indian Wells as well as the Miami Open, Kovacevic is looking good on clay. He won his opening-round match against Thanasi Kokkinakis in a tough three-set battle and will look to make it back-to-back wins against the Australians. The 25-year-old’s backhand will need some work as opponents may target his one-hander.

Like Kovacevic, Thompson too has had a memorable start to the 2024 season. He has already won a title in Los Cabos after putting on some thrilling performances. Similarly, he couldn’t carry the momentum in Sunshine Double, making early exits from both tournaments. Over the years, Thompson has achieved 60% win in his matches.

Thompson is the sixth seed in Houston and had a comfortable start to his campaign, winning against Wu Yibing in straight sets 6-4, 6-4. Given the identical nature of their campaigns so far, it promises to be a close contest between Kovacevic and Thompson.

Kovacevic vs Thompson: Head-to-Head

Thompson and Kovacevic have played each other twice before, with their head-to-head record being equally divided between them. Interestingly, they have played against each other this year as well at the Mexican Open. The match was won by Kovacevic in three sets. The American star will hope for a repeat result when he faces Thompson in Houston. But, they have not played against each other on clay.

They are scheduled to play tonight at 8.30 pm on the Stadium court in River Oaks Country Club in Houston, USA on 4th April 2024. Fans can catch the live action on Sky Sports in the UK and stream it on Tennis TV.

Prediction: Kovacevic to upset Thompson

Thompson is seeded among the two but his recent result against Kovacevic will be playing in the back of his mind. This might be an advantage to Kovacevic, who is predicted to win the match in tough three sets. Who are you backing to win this contest? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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