Jesper de Jong Eyes Upset as Clay Court Specialists Battle in Bastad

July 18, 2025: As expected from a post-Wimbledon clay event, the ATP 250 tournament in Bastad didn’t attract many big names — but that’s part of the charm. The field may be lacking star power, but it’s packed with clay-court specialists like Jesper de Jong, who are eager to capitalize on a rare title opportunity and valuable ranking points. For rising players like De Jong, this is a perfect stage to make a statement on their favorite surface.

One of the most intriguing matchups features Filip Misolic, who has a clear edge in previous head-to-heads, facing a rival with whom he shares a near-identical level on paper. Both players rely heavily on clay results to maintain their rankings, and this matchup promises to be close — but Misolic’s past dominance gives him a slight upper hand.

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In another clash of clay-court warriors, Sebastián Báez takes on Luciano Darderi. Báez has made a name for himself by racking up six ATP titles (out of ten finals) on clay, but most of his success has come at the 250 and 500 levels. His struggles at bigger events haven’t affected his consistency on the dirt.

Still, Darderi is no pushover — he’s already secured two ATP 250 clay titles this year. This one could go the distance in a high-stakes battle between two players who thrive in lower-tier clay events.
Prediction: Báez in 3.

Top seed Francisco Cerúndolo remains the highest-ranked player left in the draw, boasting the best résumé at Slams and Masters 1000s. But he’s been inconsistent at ATP 250 level. Fortunately for him, he faces Damir Dzumhur, whose prime appears to be well behind him.
Prediction: Cerúndolo in 2.

Finally, there’s Tallon Griekspoor vs. Jesper de Jong. Griekspoor has solidified himself as a reliable Top 30-40 player across all surfaces. While de Jong is still developing, clay is his best surface and he may push Griekspoor harder than expected.
Prediction: Griekspoor in 3.

The Bastad quarters may lack star power, but with so many clay court experts hungry for a rare title, expect gritty, high-quality tennis.