The French Open is fast approaching, which means that players will need to get themselves comfortable on clay. Here comes the US Men’s Clay Court Championships to give some of the best tennis players on the planet a chance to warm up on the surface.
With the tournament about to go under way, it’s time to take a look at some of the best sleeper picks heading to Houston. You never know when an underdog will rise up from the ranks to swoop in for the title.
For more on the US Men’s Clay Court Championships, check out our complete tournament preview.
Tennis News and Previews
2016 US Men’s Clay Court Championships Sleeper Picks and Predictions
Steve Johnson
Steve Johnson hasn’t gained much ground in 2016. He’s just 4-7 in 11 matches thus far. But laying in his home country for the US Men’s Clay Court Championship could give him a spark he badly needs. Johnson hasn’t been his best on clay, owning a 7-12 career mark. But he’s not exactly playing against some of the best tennis players in this tournament.
Johnson can hold his own in this 250-point tournament. He won’t have to play against the likes of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and the like. Expect Johnson to have his moments in Houston.
Marcos Baghdatis
Marcos Baghdatis is one of the hottest players entering this tournament. He’s coming off a finals appearance at the Dubai Tennis Championships in February. He beat the likes of Roberto Bautista Agut and Feliciano Lopez before falling to Stan Wawrinka in straight sets in the final.
Baghdatis hasn’t played on clay just yet this year. But he’s gone 7-4 in his 11 matches on hard surfaces. Getting to a fast start will be crucial for the Cypriot player. He’s 6-0 this year when winning the first set. He’s going to be a player to watch out for in the upcoming US Men’s Clay Court Championships.
Juan Monaco
Juan Monaco is returning to Houston to reclaim the crown he won back in 2012. Getting a win here is of utmost importance for the Argentinian. He has played in just three tournaments this season, going 1-3 in four matches. Monaco will be a strong contender for the title in this tournament. He’s a clay court specialist, winning 63 percent of his matches on the surface. Expect him to have a deep tournament run in Houston.
Create a betting account now and get everything you need when it comes to tennis betting.
