The final match of Croatia Open 2023 between Alexei Popyrin and Stan Wawrinka will take place on July 30.
Alexei Popyrin fought an intense three-hour battle against first-time semifinalist Matteo Arnaldi on Saturday. Despite missing break opportunities in the first set, his unwavering determination prevailed, and he didn’t face any more breakpoints, securing a 6-7, 7-5, 6-3 victory. His 2023 season marks an impressive comeback after a disastrous 2022. With just five main draw wins last year, he has already achieved 17 wins this year, showcasing remarkable improvement on the main tour. In a previous semifinal appearance, Popyrin rallied from a set down to upset Alexander Bublik, winning his maiden ATP title in Singapore two years ago.
Stan Wawrinka made a fairytale comeback to Umag after 16 years, reaching the finals without dropping a set. Despite a fortunate draw and struggling opponents, his achievement at 38 years old and after multiple surgeries for foot and knee issues is remarkable. With an illustrious career featuring 16 titles, including three Grand Slams, Wawrinka proves his on-court prowess. His last title at this level was in Geneva 2017, and he hadn’t competed for such a title since Antwerp 2019. Umag holds special significance as it marked Wawrinka’s first ATP title win in 2006, defeating strong players like Juan Martin Del Potro and Novak Djokovic (who retired during the match). His current performance pushed him back into the top 50 of ATP rankings, a return to this bracket after 2021.
Alexei Popyrin vs Stan Wawrinka | Details |
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Date | July 30, 2023 |
Surface | Clay |
Tournament | Croatia Open |
Stage | Final |
Time (India) | 11: 30 pm |
Opponent | Score |
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Matteo Arnaldi | 6-7, 7-5, 6-3 (W) |
Dino Prizmic | 7-6, 7-5 (W) |
Sebastian Ofner | 6-4, 6-1 (W) |
Benjamin Bonzi | 6-4, 7-5 (W) |
Dominic Stricker | 6-3, 3-6, 2-6, 6-4, 5-7 (L) |
Opponent | Score |
---|---|
Lorenzo Sonego | 6-3, 6-4 (W) |
Roberto Carballes Baena | 6-4, 7-5 (W) |
Federico Coria | 7-5, 6-1 (W) |
Filip Misolic | 6-3, 6-2 (W) |
Jaume Munar | 6-7, 1-6 (L) |
With a head-to-head record of 0-0, Stan Wawrinka is considered the stronger player, and the match’s dynamics align with his previous performances this week. If he stays physically fit, he should maintain an advantage. However, if Alexei Popyrin puts up a strong fight and makes it a challenging contest, Wawrinka could encounter difficulties.
The final match of Croatia Open 2023 between Alexei Popyrin and Stan Wawrinka will take place on July 30.
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