The first round at ATP Hertogenbosch sets up an intriguing clash between veteran Roberto Bautista-Agut and the higher-ranked Hubert Hurkacz. While both players are capable grass-court competitors, Hurkacz’s power-based game and recent form make him the clear favourite in this encounter.
Roberto Bautista-Agut vs Hubert Hurkacz Preview
At 37, Bautista-Agut is no longer the consistent force he once was. Although his flat, precise groundstrokes and solid baseline game have always been effective on grass, he’s struggled to maintain top-level performance over the past 12 months, with several early-round exits and injuries disrupting his rhythm.
He brings valuable experience, but his lack of recent wins and declining movement, especially against big servers, are concerning. His game is built on grinding and counterpunching, which can be less effective on the slick grass at Hertogenbosch.
Hurkacz, on the other hand, is in his element on grass. His booming serve and strong net skills make him a formidable opponent on this surface. He’s previously won the ATP Halle title and is consistently one of the best grass-court servers on the tour.
Fresh off a solid clay-court swing, Hurkacz transitions well to grass, using his serve-and-volley game to control points and put pressure on opponents. His composure and confidence, especially when serving, often allow him to dominate less explosive players like Bautista-Agut on faster surfaces.
Cloudbet
Place your bet on Betting Tip: Roberto Bautista-Agut vs Hubert Hurkacz
Roberto Bautista-Agut vs Hubert Hurkacz – Match Analysis
Expect Hurkacz to dictate play with his serve, often earning cheap points and applying pressure in Bautista-Agut’s service games. The Spaniard’s movement and return skills may keep things close in some rallies, but he lacks the weapons to consistently hurt Hurkacz, particularly on grass.
While Bautista-Agut might get into a rhythm in longer rallies, Hurkacz’s serve and aggressive game plan should allow him to keep points short and avoid the kind of extended exchanges that favour the Spaniard.
Betting Tip – Roberto Bautista-Agut vs Hubert Hurkacz
Hubert Hurkacz’s superior serve and grass-court pedigree make him the clear favourite to win this match. Bautista-Agut’s declining form and recent struggles against big servers only strengthen the case.
Betting Tip: Hubert Hurkacz to Win
Betting Odds: 1.43
Bookmaker: Cloudbet