Milos Raonic was runner-up in Montreal and lost a tight round of 16 match at the US Open.  The big Canadian may be cementing his spot in the top 15 in the world.  Tomas Berdych reached the semifinal round in Cincinnati and also lost in the round of 16 at the US Open.  Each man reaching the final round in Thailand bodes well for how they will end 2013 in a favorable indoor season.  The question is who will win.

Berdych’s Experience

Berdych has been on the tennis radar since his 2004 Olympic victory over Roger Federer.  He’s had multiple second week slam showings including a 2010 Wimbledon runner-up finish.  The Big Czech is the favorite on paper.

Milos is Green?

Raonic did not show a lot of poise when he reached the Montreal final.  Will he play with fewer nerves?  I think so.  Raonic has a surface that will allow him to hold serve with greater ease than Montreal.  He should be able to settle into the match.  Also, as good as Berdych is, he is not Rafael Nadal.  Finally, Raonic is not playing in front of his home fans.

The Pick

This surface should allow both big hitters hold serve with great ease.  Berdych has the better return and more experience.  Still, I feel that Berdych has been treading water on tour for a number of years whereas Raonic seems to be climbing.  I will take Milos Raonic to win 7-6, 3-6, 7-5.