The ATP Rome Masters 2026 edition is at the quarterfinal stage. Karen Khachanov is set to face Casper Ruud.
Khachanov v Ruud: A Clay Court Clash
Karen Khachanov is having his best result on clay this year. He is making the most out of a depleted Rome draw. He now faces Casper Ruud, who is slowly regaining his form especially on the clay courts this year.
Both players have not had a lot of trouble reaching the last eight. However, there exists a gap in shot quality when it comes to the clay courts. Khachanov does hit a heavy ball, but his shots are not as penetrating when compared to other surfaces, whereas Ruud’s strokes are highly effective, especially his forehand.
Ruud’s Forehand Could Be Key
If Ruud manages to protect his serve well, the prediction is that the Norwegian will have a lot of chances to break Khachanov’s serve. He will put relentless pressure with his forehand to Khachanov’s backhand.
Darderi v Jodar: Another Quarterfinal Match
Luciano Darderi faces Rafael Jodar in another quarterfinal match. This is an exciting match. Luciano Darderi has risen quickly through the ranks and the Italian is loving the home support on his run to the quarterfinals here. He faces the teenage sensation from Spain, Rafael Jodar, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, as the 19-year-old has put up a fantastic clay court season so far.
Darderi fought long and hard against Alexander Zverev, running away with the third set 6-0. Jodar on the other hand has had a relatively easier path with a straightforward win over Learner Tien in the Round of 16.
Expect a tight match between the two as both players have an aggressive game style from the baseline but Darderi is more prone to errors and it feels like Jodar will have more in the tank to elongate the rallies and draw the errors off of the racket from the Italian.
The prediction is that Jodar will win in 3 sets.
The head-to-head record between Khachanov and Ruud is 2-1 in Khachanov’s favour.