Line Calls, presented by FanDuel: At +800 to reach the Roland Garros semifinals, back Belinda Bencic

Sebastian Korda’s rocket ride up the ATP rankings continued on Friday in his convincing 6-3, 6-3, victory over Tommy Paul. Into his second career ATP final of both the season and his career, Korda is proving that when he finds his rhythm, few can match him on a tennis court.

After beating top-seeded Lorenzo Sonego in his first round, the American will look to put another dagger through the hearts of the Italian fans as he takes on Marco Cecchinato in the Emilia-Romagna Open final in Parma, Italy. According to the oddsmakers, Korda is listed as a -160 favorite and projected to win by two games.

Marta Magni Images/MEF Tennis Events

Advertising

Perhaps the former Roland Garros semifinalist can use his vastly superior clay-court experience to make Korda uncomfortable, but it’s doubtful. There’s really no answer for how hard and deep Korda is striking the ball.

There’s nothing to do when your opponent consistently crushes the ball six inches from the line, like Korda has been doing all week.

Advertising

Korda has now easily covered his game spread in his last three matches. For whatever reason, the oddsmakers keep underestimating him. He’ll surely battle nerves as he aims for his first ATP title, but he should benefit from his past experience in the January Delray Beach Open final.

There’s no use overthinking this one. Korda has decimated every opponent standing in his way and should prove too much for Cecchinato on Saturday.

The Pick: Sebastian Korda

Advertising