We preview the Rio Open which forms part of the ATP 500 series with the event set to take place between Monday 19 February – Sunday 25 February.
The thrilling South American clay court season reaches its peak with the Rio Open, hosted at the Jockey Club Brasiliero’s eight courts, including a vibrant 6,200 seat stadium that promises an electric atmosphere. As the tour heads north to Acapulco and then the major Masters 1000 events in the US, this tournament stands out as a key highlight.
Since its inauguration in 2014, when clay court legend Rafael Nadal took the title, the Rio Open has showcased some of the sport’s best talents. While this year’s lineup might differ in star appeal from the European clay events, acclaimed players Marin Cilic and Dominic Thiem bring serious excitement, making Rio a tournament to watch closely.
Past Winners
2017: Dominic Thiem
2016: Pablo Cuevas
2015: David Ferrer
2014: Rafael Nadal
First Quarter – Seeded Players – Marin Cilic (1), Diego Schwartzmann (6)
Marin Cilic, the Australian Open finalist and World No. 3, faces a challenging draw including Argentina Open semi-finalist Gael Monfils if he gets past the qualifier. Diego Schwartzmann impressed in Melbourne but underperformed in Argentina. As a typical clay specialist, Schwartzmann could cause surprises, but Cilic is the favourite here. Player to watch: Marin Cilic.
Second Quarter – Seeded Players – Albert Ramos-Vinolas (4), Pablo Cuevas (7)
Both Ramos-Vinolas and former champion Cuevas enter the event lacking form, offering opportunities for players like Dutra-Silva and Pella to shine. Ramos-Vinolas reached the Ecuador Open final but had a tough time in Argentina. Cuevas’s recent results have been modest, yet his history at this event makes him a strong candidate to advance. Player to watch: Pablo Cuevas.
Third Quarter – Seeded Players – Fabio Fognini (5), Pablo Carreno-Busta (3)
Fabio Fognini showed promise at the Australian Open, hinting at a resurgence. Pablo Carreno-Busta struggles to find form post his previous successes. Tennys Sandgren, known for a controversial play style, aims to build on his strong Melbourne performance. Player to watch: Fabio Fognini.
Fourth Quarter – Seeded Players – Fernando Verdasco (8), Dominic Thiem (2)
Dominic Thiem, the defending champion and Argentina Open winner, looks poised to defend his crown. Fernando Verdasco presents a strong challenge, starting with a face-off against the talented Leonardo Mayer. The winner likely meets Thiem in the quarters, with Thiem predicted to emerge successful as he remains one of the top active clay courters behind Nadal. Player to watch: Dominic Thiem.
Selected First-Round Matches – Upset Watch
Fernando Verdasco (15/20) vs Leonardo Mayer (1/1)
An intense baseline battle is expected, with Mayer recently defeating Fognini, while Verdasco’s form has been lacklustre. This promises an exciting encounter.
Albert Ramos-Vinolas (3/10) vs Rodrigo Dutra Silva (47/20)
A speculative pick where Dutra-Silva, though primarily a doubles specialist, offers enticing odds. This could be the week for an upset.
Fabio Fognini (9/20) vs Thomas Bellucci (33/20)
Though Fognini is the favourite to emerge from this section, his comfortable head-to-head hasn’t always been decisive, with two tight-set tiebreak victories. This match could harbour surprises.
