Taylor Fritz entered this tournament as many people’s selection to turn a few heads, but he’s been generating headlines for the wrong reason so far this summer swing.
The 26-year-old cut his 2023 season short with an oblique injury, and is now battling with leg injuries on Australian shores, first a quad issue against De Minaur in the United Cup, and then with an ankle problem in a four-sets win over Facundo Diaz Acosta.
“I’m going to have to tape my ankle for the rest of the week,” Fritz said.
“I heard it pop. At first it felt pretty bad.”
While the American expressed confidence in his ankle moving forward – given an extended rest before Wednesday’s match – you can’t completely ignore three separate issues in the past 2 months.
Hugo Gaston wasn’t without his struggles against Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena on Monday, but eventually worked his way through the contest in sweltering conditions.
I don’t tend to look at data too much before betting on Gaston, I try to gain an understanding of his motivation levels during the tournament at hand, and go from there.
This man has a hard court win over Carlos Alcaraz on his resume, and is capable of playing some absolutely stunning tennis when he’s interested.
He is defensively outstanding and his incredible touch on his drop shot – these qualities could be testing for Fritz if his lower body isn’t up to scratch.
I generally have trust in the American’s fitness and staying power, but with the little asterisk next to his name, I’m happy to have a bit at the Frenchman.
Gaston has been priced $3 or higher 42 times in his professional career. He’s won 16 of these matches for an ROI of 83%. This man can get up for these types of matches and if Fritz is carrying any sort of physical issue, look out.
Fritz lost to Popyrin in the early stages of this tournament last year and Gaston shouldn’t be $7 to send him packing again
Suggested Bet:
0.25 units Hugo Gaston to WIN @ $7.28 at Pinnacle
Over 18s Only (21+ in some jurisdictions). 1 unit = 1% of bankroll. Please enjoy your betting responsibly. Never bet more than you can afford to lose, and do not chase a loss.
Jake’s Australian Open Preview: A Frenchman at a price
