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As one of the oldest tennis events in Germany, the Hamburg European Open is regarded as a highlight of the summer clay-court circuit. It is just around the corner, and the anticipation is palpable as fans and experts eagerly discuss the potential contenders who might shine on the clay courts of the Rothenbaum Tennis Center.
As bookmakers start releasing their betting odds, the excitement in the tennis betting world is at an all-time high. Attracting top players from around the globe to compete for both victory and a substantial prize pool.
In this article, we explore the betting odds and highlight players who stand out as the frontrunners according to the bookmakers and delve into the factors that have influenced their odds, making them the favourites to claim the title in one of the oldest events currently on the tour.
WTA’s Singles 2023 Hamburg Open Favourites
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The clay courts of Hamburg, Germany, are set to witness an exhilarating display of women’s tennis prowess as the 2023 Hamburg Open draws near. With the excitement building and anticipation reaching its peak, fans and experts are eagerly speculating on who will emerge as the top favourites in the Women’s Singles event.
Donna Vekic – 11/2 (6.50)
The Croatian is the top seed in Hamburg Open and will have her eyes set on conquering the clay courts of Rothenbaum Tennis Center. In 2023, Donna Vekic had a competitive and eventful year on the WTA tour, with a mix of notable achievements and some challenges along the way.
She started the year strong by clinching the title at Monterrey, demonstrating her ability to perform at a high level and secure victories on the tour. However, following her triumph in Monterrey, her results in some of the bigger tournaments were less consistent. While reaching the final in Berlin was an impressive feat, her performance in the Grand Slam events was a bit inconsistent, with quarterfinal exits at the Australian Open and Linz.
- First round: Loss vs Hunter 6-3, 3-6, 3-5
The first seed had a relatively easy task against Storm Hunter. The proceedings went according to the plan as the Australian surrendered 6-3. All indications pointed towards a swift victory for Vekic. However, it was not going to be. It was Hunter who had broken Vekic’s serve in the first game of the meeting and only gained momentum as the match progressed. As Hunter became efficient in holding her serve, in the second and third sets, the writing was on the wall. The 154-ranked WTA star upset Vekic, sending her to an early exit and dashing her fans’ hopes.
Bernarda Pera – 8/1 (9.00)
In 2023, Pera has proven herself as a competitive force on the WTA tour, which is not completely evidenced by her 16-17 win/loss record. Notably, she reached the quarterfinals in Hobart and Strasbourg, as well as the fourth round at the French Open.
Her ability to challenge top players and adapt to different surfaces highlights her versatility and determination on the court and will surely be useful in Hamburg Open. As the third seed and reigning champion, Pera enters the tournament with strong odds of 8/1, positioning her as a serious contender for the title. Only behind Donna Vekic, who holds 11/2 odds, Pera’s chances of success are promising.
- First round: Win vs Somnez 6-2, 1-6, 6-4
Zeynep Somnez put up a strong fight against Pera but eventually succumbed to the American’s resistance. It was the second seed who delivered the first blow, taking the first set with ease by breaking Somnez’s serve twice. The Swiss ace replied in kind in the second set to make it 1-1. Another see-saw battle was seen in the deciding set, Pera, breaking Somnez’s second serve game but was unable to hold her own in the next game. With the score at 5-4, the American went for the killing blow against the 201-ranked WTA star. Pera took a 40-0 lead but needed three MP opportunities to book her place in the next round.
- Second round: Win vs Kanepi 7-6, 6-1
While her rivals have received extra time off, Pera continues to plough through the field. On the day when Vekic was beginning her ill-fated journey in Hamburg, the American ace was readying for her second-round test. Kaia Kanepi started brightly by forcing a tie-breaker in the first set but it took everything she had. The third seed converted three of the two opportunities that came her way in the second set, ensuring her place in the quarter-finals. The Estonian ace had nothing left to give in the second set, which allowed Pera to cruise to victory.
- Quarter-Final: Loss vs Shnaider 1-6, 6-2, 4-6
The quick turnaround in fixtures finally took its toll as Pera succumbed to Russian teenage, Diana Shnaider. The 101-ranked youth started brightly, claiming the first set with ease. She was on the receiving end of Pera’s vengeance as she surrendered the second set 6-2. After time to regroup and Pera involved in her second three-setter in four days, Shnaider sensed the kill. She got the opportunity in the ninth game of the decider, taking it away and missing out on three breakpoint opportunities. She then finished off the game with Pera still giving her the fight to deny a matchpoint and two reversal opportunities.
Mayar Sherif – 8/1 (9.00)
The Egyptian ace has been having an impressive season on the WTA tour in 2023, amassing a commendable 27-17 win/loss record. What sets Sherif apart is her exceptional performance on clay courts, where she boasts a remarkable 22-7 record.
Sherif has achieved notable successes on clay throughout the year, claiming titles in Makarska and Valencia. Additionally, she reached the semifinals in Oeiras and Palermo, and the quarterfinals in Monterrey and Madrid. With her odds set at 8/1 in the Hamburg Open, Sherif’s success on clay and impressive form in 2023 have undoubtedly caught the attention of fans and pundits alike.
- First round: Loss vs Lys 6-1, 6-1
Ranked 31 and at 27, Mayar Sherif should be entering her prime. However, the Egyptian ace continues to struggle when given the responsibility. In Hamburg, it was 21-year-old Eva Lys who ended her misery. It was never a competitive duel despite the difference in their ranking. The Egyptian’s woeful form was evidenced by her 38% first-serve points won. On the other hand, the 167-ranked German carved out 13 breakpoint opportunities and converted six of them to never allow Sherif any space.
ATP’s Singles 2023 Hamburg Open Favourites
Andrey Rublev – 14/5 (3.80)
Rublev enters the Hamburg Open as the second seed, armed with an impressive 39 wins and 14 losses in the 2023 season. Notably, Rublev’s prowess on clay courts has been particularly remarkable, boasting an outstanding 18-4 record on the surface this year. The Russian showcased his ability to consistently challenge the best in the sport is evident from his tournament finishes.
He emerged as the champion at Monte-Carlo and Bastad, showcasing his dominance on clay. Moreover, his phenomenal run to the finals at Dubai, Banja Luka, and Halle demonstrates his ability to contend for titles across different tournaments. His deep runs continued with impressive quarterfinal appearances at the Australian Open, Doha, and Wimbledon, showcasing the turnaround in mentality and hunger for success.
- First round: Win vs Zapata Miralles 7-5, 1-6, 6-7
In a thrilling first-round match at the Hamburg Open, Rublev showcased his tenacity and skill as he triumphed over Zapata Miralles with a hard-fought victory of 7-5, 1-6, 6-7. Despite a setback in the first set, Rublev managed to regain his focus and determination, eventually clinching the decisive tiebreak in the third set. With this impressive win under his belt, Rublev advances to the second round, where he will face Daniel Altmaier. Altmaier secured his place in the next round by defeating the seasoned Richard Gasquet, setting the stage for an exciting showdown.
- Second round: Loss vs Altmaier 6-2, 6-2
In a surprising turn of events, second-seeded Andrey Rublev faced a shocking defeat in the second round at the hands of the home crowd favourite, Daniel Altmaier. The ATP 7th-ranked star appeared to struggle against the inspired play of Altmaier, who put on a dominant display from the very start.
With a stunning scoreline of 6-2, 6-2, the German player dispatched Rublev with ease, leaving spectators and tennis enthusiasts in awe of his performance. The upset adds an extra layer of excitement to the tournament and sets the stage for more thrilling encounters with two home representatives progressing in the event.
Casper Ruud – 3/1 (4.00)
The formidable Norwegian tennis player is set to lead the pack as the top seed at the Hamburg Open. Ruud’s prowess on clay courts has been particularly outstanding, boasting an exceptional 20-6 record on the surface this year. His mastery of clay has earned him remarkable victories and consistently strong performances.
In 2023, Ruud proved his mettle in various high-profile tournaments. He clinched the title at Estoril, while also making a remarkable run to the final at the French Open and Bastad. He has also had deep runs continued with semifinal appearances at Rome and quarterfinals in Geneva. He demonstrated his capacity to challenge the best in the sport with impressive third-round finishes at Indian Wells, Miami, Monte-Carlo, and Barcelona.
- First round: Win vs Baez 6-3, 1-6, 6-3
Despite facing challenges with the playing conditions, the Norwegian showed his resilience and determination in a hard-fought battle against Sebastian Baez. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions and momentum swings, with both players displaying their strengths and weaknesses.
Ruud managed to secure a crucial victory with a scoreline of 6-3, 1-6, 6-3, emphasizing his ability to capitalize on important moments. For the number 1 seed, the journey doesn’t get easier as he now faces another formidable opponent, Cristian Garin, in the next round.
- Second round: Win vs Garin 1-6, 6-2, 6-2
In a dramatic match at the Hamburg Open, the top seed showcased his resilience and determination against the 120th-ranked Garin. The Chilean started off strong, taking the first set with a commanding 6-1 lead, putting the Norwegian on the back foot. However, refusing to back down, Ruud regrouped and found his rhythm in the following sets.
Displaying his prowess on the clay court, he dominated the rest of the match, claiming the second and third sets with identical scores of 6-2. With this impressive comeback, Ruud demonstrated why he is ranked 4th in the world and a formidable force on the tennis circuit. The victory sets him up for an exciting quarter-final clash against Arthur Fils, and fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling battle on the clay courts of Hamburg.
- Quarter-Final: Loss vs Fils 0-6, 4-6
In a stunning upset at the Hamburg Open, top-seeded Ruud faced a surprising straight-sets defeat at the hands of the talented French teenager, Arthur Fils. The match showcased Fils’ remarkable prowess on the court as he dominated the Norwegian, handing him a resounding bagel in the first set and securing a 6-4 victory in the second.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the 19-year-old, who managed to outplay the tournament’s top seed. Prior to this, Ruud had also suffered defeat at the hands of Andriy Rublev in the Bastad Open final, making it a challenging couple of weeks for the Norwegian, who had high hopes for success in both tournaments.
Alexander Zverev – 7/2 (3.50)
The German is the third seed and will undoubtedly be eager to showcase his skills in the home tournament. In the 2023 season, Zverev has displayed a commendable performance with a record of 28 wins and 18 losses. Notably, he has proven to be a formidable force on clay courts, securing an impressive 15-7 record on the surface this year.
Zverev will fancy his chances after a series of strong tournament finishes on the ATP Tour in 2023. He reached the semifinals at Dubai, Geneva, the French Open, and Halle, and made it to the quarterfinals in Bastad. Additionally, he showed his mettle by reaching the fourth round in prestigious events like Indian Wells, Madrid, and Rome.
- First round: Win vs Molcan 6-0, 6-3
Prior to this meeting, Zverev had met Alex Molcan twice in 2023. He had beaten him at Roland Garros and the recently concluded Bastad Open. The result was the same this time around but the German ace added a bagel bonus to mark his third victory against the Serbian. Zverev put the pedal to the metal, breaking his rival thrice to take the first set. He started the second set in the same manner and it was not until the tenth game that Molcan claimed his first game. By that time, Zverev had taken a 3-1 lead and the conclusion to the fixture was already on the card.
- Second round: Win vs Marterer 6-4, 7-5
In a dominant display of his skills on the tennis court, the third seed secured a well-deserved victory over compatriot Maximilian Marterer with a scoreline of 6-4, 7-5. The match showcased Zverev’s precision and composure, allowing him to control the game and dictate the pace against his opponent. With this impressive win, Zverev advances to the quarter-finals, marking another step forward in his quest for success in the tournament. In the quarter-finals, Zverev will face a new challenge in the form of Luca Van Assche.
- Quarter-Final: Win vs van Assche 6-3, 6-4
In an eventful Hamburg Open, the top seed Ruud and second seed Rublev faced surprising exits, leaving the path open for third seed Zverev to continue his impressive run at Rothenbaum. Zverev showcased his dominant form with a third consecutive straight-set victory, advancing towards the finals with confidence.
In the quarterfinals, he overcame the challenge of Luca Van Assche with a convincing 6-3, 6-4 win. With his eyes set on the title, Zverev now faces the formidable young French prodigy, Arthur Fils, in the semifinals. As the German aims to break his semifinal curse, the matchup against Fils promises to be a captivating showdown of experience and youth on the clay courts of Hamburg.
- Semi-Final: Win vs Fils 6-2, 6-4
In a commanding display of skill and determination, Zverev secured a well-deserved victory over the talented French teenager, Arthur Fils, in the semifinals. The German ace dominated the match, winning with a decisive scoreline of 6-2, 6-4.
Zverev showcased his prowess by breaking Fils’ serve on three crucial occasions, while also impressively saving all the breakpoints he faced. With this convincing win, the German ace has positioned himself for a high-stakes clash in the final against Laslo Djere, whom he has beaten in their previous encounters and has yet to drop a set against him.
Fans can expect an intense battle between two skilled players, each hungry for victory in the Hamburg Open final. Zverev will look to claim the elusive title that has been out of his grasp for too long, Zverev’s confidence is likely soaring after his successful semifinal performance. However, Djere has displayed exceptional form throughout the tournament, making the final a thrilling contest to keep an eye on.
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