Honestly, I would be very surprised not to see a big server lift the trophy in Halle this year. The playing conditions are so fast and favorable to powerful players that I refuse to believe that a specialist in baseline rallies could prevail.
On paper, Jannik Sinner appears to be the logical favorite. He now has a record of 31 wins and 8 losses this season, he seems completely impervious to pressure and he is playing freely since his title at Roland Garros. But there is still a huge ‘but’: I have a hard time seeing him hold up this type of draw on grass against opponents who will be able to gradually wear down his footwork and make him crack mentally.
Among the other contenders, I will be watching Alexander Bublik very closely. The Kazakh won the title here in 2023 and 2025, he seems perfectly at ease on this fast surface and he protects his serve very well. Honestly, I see him capable of immediately taking control of the rallies from the baseline, imposing his pace and above all, gradually breaking down his opponents.
Good matches to all ♥️
