Open Sud de France, Montpellier

[44] Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA) vs. [210] Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA)

One is looking to reestablish himself as a contender amongst the elite and the other is hoping to claim his first ATP Tour singles title. Tsonga leads their head-to-head 2:0; however, that was two years ago. A lot has changed for both players since; yet despite the discrepancy in their rankings, the odds no doubt will heavily favor Tsonga. Herbert is at an all-time career high in singles and he is hoping to cement his status as a singles player; thus, he will be extremely motivated to turn the tables on his countryman

It will be a battle not only between the lines but also between the ears. Both players are vulnerable to the pressure of the occasion; however, experience as an established singles champion will give Tsonga the edge. Herbert will have to shrug aside the memory of his two previous losses in finals and focus his energy on conquering the powerful forehand of his countryman.

Will he be third time lucky or will Tsonga continue to have his number? Herbert has been playing some of the best singles tennis of his career and if he can remember that, he could sneak by with the victory if Tsonga is off his game. It could be an exciting final. Herbert would love to prove that he is more than a doubles player; however, to do so, he will have to serve with precision and execute his volleys exceptionally well. He needs to stay close with Tsonga from the very beginning because if her falls behind, Tsonga can steamroll his way to victory.

SOURCE OF IMAGES: serveandrally (Pierre-Hugues Herbert)