The Pick: Pablo Cuevas vs. Casper Ruud, ATP Munich second round

Whether you've struggled to find your footing on clay or a dirtballing diehard, consider tuning in for this second-round clash between Casper Ruud and Pablo Cuevas in Munich.

Though the two are at very different stages in their careers, they both summon their best tennis on red clay. All six of Cuevas’ ATP titles have come on the surface; Ruud’s maiden title came in Buenos Aires, and his other two final appearances came on the dirt, as well.

Ruud is listed as a -500 favorite according to the oddsmakers, but Cuevas will likely have a few tricks—and hopefully trick shots—up his sleeve. The 35-year-old is on the tail-end of his career, but is still one of the few players equipped to handle the Norwegian’s incredible spin production.

Though he stands just 5’11”, Cuevas owns one of the most effective kick serves on tour, and will need to hit it well in order to keep Ruud on defense.

Content to rally from far behind the baseline, Cuevas nonetheless does a phenomenal job of taking the ball early when opportunity knocks.

The Uruguayan will need to make his presence known early, as Ruud is a fantastic front-runner. His physicality and unrelenting weight of shot can be demoralizing.

In the end, expect the younger, stronger legs to prevail, but don’t take this matchup for granted, as Cuevas is one of the best clay-courters of his generation. Ruud will likely end up as one of the best of his.

The Pick: Casper Ruud