If I'm not mistaken, this Mensik guy has already disappointed #1 seed Rublev in a quarterfinal? He has also eliminated Andy Murray earlier in the same tournament. Not sure if he has a chance against Khachanov though. The in-form Russian has improved a lot this year and is ready for top 10, perhaps even top 5.
Kalinskaya will definitely win in Dubai, if she won't get injured. Paolini has much less fuel left in her tank.
Mensik the Czech teenager got into the draw by using his protected next gen's 1 direct entry into a 1000 event. He chose Qatar as it's the only event that gives out free iPad to all the participants
. Now, he finds himself into the finals of it against Khachanov. Watched Mansik play against Rublev and his style is more of an all rounder. He will try to get every ball back into play and keep the rally going until the opponent makes an error. Which disturbed Rublev's rhythm to hit flat-out winners while he's not in the best of form. Khachanov who has more spin to his forehand and a consistent backhand relies on point construction, rather than trying to powerhit the opponent into making unforced errors. Should be a good contest but I think Khachanov should be winning this. Good showing from both the players so far though. Should be an entertaining contest.
Regarding Kalinskaya, I wouldn't call it a definite win but she does look better. A lot of people have underestimated Paolini and been surprised by her consistency. Paolini has won a WTA title and been a finalist too. She shouldn't feel the nerves as much as Kalinskaya as this isn't uncharted territory for her.
Yes it was a great result from Mensik to beat Monfils, The Frenchman was having a
good tournament. Mensik faces a bigger challenge IMO today in the final which has
started, his odds are now 3.0, I think he is worth a small bet! Small bet only because
Khachanov is seeded number 2. This is a massive game for the young Czech, a
dream start to his season.
I too like his play, being an all-rounder is far better than being a specialist in one area,
like some players who kind of rely on a superior service game.