Matteo Berrettini is on fire right now! He’s had his ups and downs, but it looks like he’s finally found some consistency. After two tough wins, he’s just one match away from his first-ever semifinal appearance at the Qatar Open. He even said, “The feeling that I belong among the best tennis players in the world never left me. I went through very dark moments, but deep down, I knew I had the necessary level to be here.” His next challenge? Jack Draper! Can Berrettini take down this in-form British star?

Matteo Berrettini vs Jack Draper: Preview

In Doha, Matteo Berrettini defeated the 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in the R32 by 7-6(4),6-2. His incredible performance in that match earned him praise even from the Serb himself. Following that huge win, Berrettini battled through a three-set thriller against Tallon Griekspoor in the round of 16.

Draper didn’t have to work hard so far in this tournament. He cruised through his opening rounds in two sets each. In the previous match, the Brit defeated Australia’s Christopher O’Connell by 6-2, 6-1.

Berrettini v Draper: Head-to-Head

Currently, the Brit has a 1-0 lead over the Italian in the H2H record.

• 2024 Stuttgart final: Draper 3-6,7-6(5),6-4.

Prediction: Berrettini to win in three sets

Last time it went to three sets and we’re expecting a similar thing in this contest as well. However, Matteo Berrettini will have a slight edge in this match. Reason? Well, the Italian has already been tested against some tough opponents in this tournament. While Jack Draper has faced comparatively easier opponents as of now in Doha. However, having said that fatigue could also play a bit of a role in this match. Will it put Berrettini in the backseat of this epic duel?

The former world number 6 is desperate to bring back his golden days. Berrettini is currently ranked 35 in the world and he has a win-loss record of 3-3 as of now in this season. Whereas, Draper (16) currently has a win-loss record of 5-2. Numbers and records favor the Brit, but I feel the experienced campaigner may seal the deal this time. Well, is that it?

If we take a look at their playing styles, Berrettini is an aggressive all-court player, and he’s known for his strong serve and forehands. He has hit 69 aces so far this season and committed 13 double faults. Berrettini loves setting up quick points and hitting winners with aggressive play. He’s known for his incredible serve-and-volleys and he can also disguise his opponents by hitting drip shots on both wings. However, Berrettini’s biggest weakness has been his defensive game.

Jack Draper needs to convert his chances right from the start of this match to stand a chance against the in-form Italian. Draper loves playing a fearless brand of tennis. He is a natural right-hander, but he plays with his left hand, essentially making him a “switch-hitter” in tennis. His powerful baseline game makes him a real threat on the Tour. Apart from that, Draper also has the ability to cause a few troubles for his opponents with his venomous serves and impeccable backhands.

Are these enough to beat someone like Berrettini who will be entering this battle after outclassing two formidable opponents in his previous two matches? Well, that looks a bit unlikely at the moment!