The ATP and WTA Tours are currently underway, with women competing in a 1000-level event in Dubai and men participating in 500-level tournaments in Doha and Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, the Delray Beach 250 tournament has a competitive field. Given this busy schedule, I’ll be sharing my tennis best bets from Monday through Friday, followed by my championship picks on the VSiN Pro Picks page on Sunday. Keep reading for my best bets for Friday, February 20.
NOTE: Gill Alexander, the host of A Numbers Game, shares several tennis plays on the VSiN picks page and does an excellent job at analyzing tennis matches. This page also includes my Challenger-level picks and plays for tournaments that I don’t write about daily.
Elina Svitolina vs. Coco Gauff – Dubai
Svitolina dominated Gauff in Melbourne, securing a 6-1, 6-2 victory. This year, Svitolina has experienced a remarkable run, boasting a record of 14-2 and achieving career-high hold (74.7%) and break percentages (44.5%). Although the odds aren’t as favorable as they were during the Australian Open, Svitolina’s performance paints a promising picture compared to Gauff’s recent struggles. Gauff may have won her last match against Alexandra Eala, but she showed significant service issues. If Gauff struggles with her service again, Svitolina, being an elite returner, will capitalize on that.
Bet: Svitolina ML (+134)
Sebastian Korda vs. Casper Ruud – Delray Beach
Chak Lam Coleman Wong vs. Flavio Cobolli – Delray Beach
The matchup between Korda and Ruud presents an interesting scenario. Typically, I’d favor Korda, especially considering the betting trends showing significant support for Ruud. Despite Ruud’s struggles leading into this tournament and his unimpressive win against Marcos Giron, Korda’s recent form is noteworthy. However, Ruud’s experience and ability to perform under pressure give him an advantage. That’s why I hesitate to fully support Korda, whose mental resilience can waver.
Instead of betting on Korda, I’m backing Ruud to win at least one set. Despite some rough patches, including a poor start against Giron, Ruud seemed to find his rhythm later on. Statistically, Ruud is more effective in attacking and has advantages in both forehand and backhand play. While Korda boasts a strong serve, Ruud’s overall consistency could be key.
In this match, I feel confident Ruud will secure at least a set win, and I’m pairing this with Coleman Wong to achieve the same. Cobolli’s performance has notably declined; his sloppy play makes it unlikely he’ll win in straight sets.
PARLAY: Ruud +1.5 Sets & Coleman Wong +1.5 Sets (+103)
Added Plays
I usually have a lot more action on the Pro Picks page, where my bets contribute to my record and success this season. Be sure to check there for more updates, as I may add additional picks throughout the day.
