Holger Rune and Novak Djokovic meet for a highly-anticipated clash in the Round of 16.
The pregame narrative: Djokovic has largely been his typical self at Wimbledon. But this profiles as a difficult matchup for the Serbian. I'm taking the value with the underdog Rune in a match that should be close.
Check out our Rune vs. Djokovic odds and best bet for their Wimbledon match on July 8.
Rune vs. Djokovic Wimbledon odds
Best bet: Rune +1.5 sets (+112)
Djokovic is one of the best competitors of all time. Many have tried to thwart the Serbian, but only a handful have had any sort of consistent success against him.
To an extent, Rune is one of those competitors.
The Danish star doesn't boast a winning record against Djokovic, but he does have two wins in five head-to-head matches.
The other contests were very close. Their first meeting was a four-set win for Djokovic at the US Open, but each of the last four outings has gone the distance.
Rune has done well to adjust to the early-career struggles he had on grass. He lost the first three grass-court matches in his pro career but owns an impressive 10-3 record since.
The 21-year-old has youth on his side and presumably health. His opponent is one month removed from knee surgery and is wearing a brace/sleeve on his right leg.
Court time is also working in Rune's favour. He's only logged six hours and 45 minutes on the court while Djokovic has played eight hours and three minutes.
This is also a significant upgrade in opponent class for Djokovic. None of his first three opponents ranked inside the ATP's top 40. Rune enters this match as the No. 15 player in the world.
Rune's athletic style could put an ailing Djokovic in some uncomfortable situations. I like the Dane's chances of having success in this matchup and taking advantage of the critical moments.
Key stat: Rune is the only ATP competitor who has won a higher percentage of tie breaks (78.1%) than Djokovic (73.1%).
Picks made at 1:50 p.m. ET on 07/07/2024.
