Dominic Thiem vs Marin Cilic: US Open Preview and Prediction

World number 3, Dominic Thiem squares off against 38th-ranked Marin Cilic in an exciting third-round clash at the US Open. 

After a sluggish opening win against Jaume Munar in the first round, Thiem found form on his birthday by thrashing Sumit Nagal in straight sets in the second round. The Austrian had a much better showing with his second serve clocking a winning percentage of 75. 

On the other hand, Cilic was on the verge of elimination after losing the first two sets in the opener against homeboy, Denis Kudla. However, the 2014 champion roared back into contention winning the next three sets to pocket the match. The Croatian smashed 26 aces and had an impressive first-serve winning percentage of 83. 

The 31st seed delivered a clinical performance hitting 35 winners in a four-set win against Norbert Gombos in the second round yesterday. 

Cilic's second-serve needs attention as it has been largely inconsistent. He must also reduce his count of double faults having committed 16 in his past two matches. 

He's one of the big champions of the last decade, one of the very few active players, who won a Grand Slam tournament here in New York… Even though, for sure, he's not on the top of his game, he's always dangerous for a deep run in these big tournaments. He's not a guy I want to face in the third round as he's a former champion. On a good day, he can beat anybody. It’s going to be a real tough one," said Thiem praising his counterpart Cilic ahead of the blockbuster showdown. 

Head to Head record 

Thiem has won both his matches against Cilic so far. 

While Cilic is slowly getting back into the groove and improving his consistency, Thiem is looking in good touch. Cilic will look to ensure that his footwork stays strong as he cannot afford a slow start against Thiem. Thiem's ability to control the rallies and hard-hitting groundstrokes would keep him in good stead. 

Prediction - Dominic Thiem to win in four sets 

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