Action in Quebec proceeds on Monday with Rafael Jodar from Spain competing against France’s Arthur Fils in a key quarterfinal match showcasing two rising tennis stars at ATP Montreal.
This is their third encounter this season, as Jodar beat Fils at last week’s DC Open, while Fils won their previous match at the Barcelona Open back in April.
This match is projected to be close, with bookmakers favoring Jodar at -114 on the moneyline and Fils at -105 on FanDuel Sportsbook.
ATP Montreal pick, best bet: Jodar vs. Fils
Jodar’s journey has been a fairy tale, as he was ranked No. 168 to start the year and has since climbed to No. 13 during this tournament.
The 19-year-old is having a remarkable year, claiming his first ATP title in Marrakech and advancing far in Madrid, Rome, and Roland Garros, which moved him into the Top-30. He was also very close to beating Taylor Fritz in the final of the DC Open last week.
Jodar’s aggressive, swift forehand has become a hallmark of his ability to generate play from both wings.
He defeated Jiri Lehecka 6-3, 6-3 on Saturday, becoming one of only three teenagers alongside Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to reach three or more consecutive ATP Masters 1000 quarterfinals since 1990.
Fils was able to outperform Cameron Norrie in his round of 16 match and, overall, is a tricky matchup for Jodar. With a forehand just as powerful and the athleticism to cover the net, Jodar cannot rely on his backhands to prevail.
It’s also important to note that Fils sustained a hip and back injury in his last loss to Jodar, but has put it behind him after consecutive wins in Montreal.
Fils can also sustain rallies, as shown in their previous two matchups, given Jodar’s tendency to struggle with ball depth on his heavy shots, especially when pushed beyond the baseline by opponents.
Considering their history, grabbing the Frenchman at -105 doesn’t seem like a bad wager.
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In what should be a classic, I’m willing to back Fils to get some revenge and advance to the semifinals.
The Play: Fils moneyline (-105, FanDuel)
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