Ferrer's Route To The Semifinal

Top seed David Ferrer has rebounded well from a disappointing loss in Doha last week, winning his two matches fairly comfortably. After receiving a bye in the first round (an extra day off may be an advantage for the Spaniard) he faced Australian qualifier Matthew Barton; Ferrer won as expected, comfortably seeing off the Aussie 6-2, 6-4. A more difficult test waited in the quarterfinal against Lukas Rosol. The Czech star had the potential to upset Ferrer, but the Spaniard was solid as he eased to a 6-3, 6-4 win to reach the semifinals.

Sock's Route To The Semifinal

Jack Sock arrived in this tournament following an appearance at the Hopman Cup and has defied his unseeded status here. It was a strong start for the American, easing past Victor Estrella Burgos 6-0, 6-4. Following this win he had to play his doubles partner Vasek Pospisil; Sock performed well here as he comfortably saw off the Canadian 6-2 6-4. However it was in the quarterfinals where he was truly tested. On paper, fourth seed Kevin Anderson was going to be Sock's toughest test so far, and for a while it looked like it might be the end of the road for the American as he was trounced in the first set; however Sock fought back and eventually sealed a 1-6, 6-4, 6-4 victory, showing the fight he will need against Ferrer.

Analysis

This will arguably be the toughest match for both men so far and there is one area where they can both improve- serve. Sock has had a first serve percentage of only 53%, whilst Ferrer is only slightly better at 59%. Both men are aggressive and are good returners, but the serve is an area where they will both need to improve if they want to reach the final.

Break point opportunities will be key for both; Ferrer has taken 58.5% of his break opportunities whilst Sock has taken less at 46%. Ferrer has also been impressive on serve- he has held every service game so far- whilst Sock has also been strong on serve, saving 87.5% of break points against him has only lost his serve twice this tournament (both to Kevin Anderson). Whilst Ferrer is not massively far ahead in these stats, if these continue he will have the best opportunity of winning this match.

Ferrer is also the more experienced of the two and Sock may find it difficult to break down the Spaniard's defence. However with Ferrer not being the most powerful player around, Sock could have success if he tries to finish points quickly and not engage in lengthy rallies- it seems likely that Ferrer will edge these. Sock must be careful to not make too many errors, though he has been impressive so far and Ferrer is now more vulnerable against opponents who can overpower him.

Prediction

Ferrer won their only previous meeting 4-6, 6-3, 6-1, though that was over two years ago- Sock has improved remarkably since then. However, the American is still on the back foot in this match as despite playing good tennis, so he will need to improve his serve and take all his break point chances in this match. Ferrer does have the edge in the stats, but is vulnerable to Sock's power and will need to have a clean game himself.

This match promises to be tight; it will be interesting to see who comes out on top. 

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About the author
Oliver Dickson Jefford
20. English Literature student at the University of Southampton. Aspiring sports journalist from Hertfordshire.