The final of the inaugural ATP Hangzhou Open is set and a blockbuster matchup for the fans, as local favourite Zhizhen Zhang faces former Grand Slam champion Marin Cilic. Zhang, riding the momentum of home support, aims to secure his first-ever ATP title. Conversely, Cilic, the 2014 US Open winner, wants to become the lowest-ranked player to win an ATP title. This final promises compelling tennis but who will lift the title?
ATP Hangzhou Final Prediction
Marin Cilic vs Zhizhen Zhang
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Marin Cilic got his toughest test in the semifinals since his comeback from injury and passed with flying colours. Brandon Nakashima is one of the most in-form players on the tour and Cilic played a solid match to overcome the American. The Croatian hit 30 winners in the match and saved both the break points. Cilic is ranked #373 and is the second lowest-ranked player to make an ATP final. He has a chance to make history if he wins the final as he will become the lowest-ranked player ever to win a title.
Zhizhen Zhang’s powerful baseline game and improved consistency have taken him to his first-ever ATP-level final. Zhang did not have the cleanest performance in the semifinals, but his serve ensured that he won in straight sets. The Chinese has dropped just one set this week and will play the biggest match of his career against Cilic. He will be back inside the top 40 with the win.
This is a huge match for both these players. A title will give a big boost for Cilic going forward and a significant jump in the rankings. For Zhang, it will be a dream moment to win his first tour-level title in front of his home crowd. Cilic is much more experienced as this is his 37th tour-level final and that gives him a slight edge. Zhang will have to limit his errors and ride the energy from the fans. I am going with Cilic to make history.
Prediction: Cilic in 3
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
