Four thrilling second-round matches are set to take place on the fourth day of the ATP Almaty Open, promising an exciting day of tennis in Kazakhstan. As always, we are prepared to provide predictions for every match, sparking curiosity about which players will advance in the tournament.
In the matchup between Luciano Darderi and Shintaro Mochizuki, this will mark their first encounter. Mochizuki comes into the match with renewed confidence after defeating Arthur Cazaux in an impressive first-round performance, putting him in a strong position to break into the top 100 for the first time with another win. His solid returning skills and anticipation might test Darderi, who is poised to make his Almaty Open debut. While Darderi is slightly favored to win, the competition could be fierce. Expect a close contest, with Darderi predicted to prevail in three sets.
The second match features Alex Michelsen against Aleksandar Vukic, also a first-time meeting. Michelsen managed to secure a much-needed first-round win, ending a five-match losing streak, but he faced limited resistance from his previous opponent. In contrast, Vukic brings a more formidable challenge, particularly as he thrives under these conditions. Though it may be a competitive match, Vukic is favored to emerge victorious in three sets.
Defending champion Karen Khachanov takes on Jan-Lennard Struff, with Khachanov leading their head-to-head record 3-1. However, he enters the tournament facing a three-match losing streak and will aim to improve upon last year’s strong performance. Struff demonstrated resilience by recovering from a set down to beat Mackenzie McDonald in his opening match. Both players will need to bring their best game, and while Khachanov has the historical advantage, Struff’s previous win on indoor hard courts could prove challenging. Khachanov is predicted to win in three sets, but a tough battle is anticipated.
Finally, Daniil Medvedev faces Adam Walton, with an interesting twist: Walton has previously defeated Medvedev once this season. Medvedev appears to be finding his groove under the guidance of his new coach and showcased moments of brilliance in Shanghai last week. This will be Medvedev’s first appearance at the Almaty Open, and he is likely to excel in the low-bouncing indoor conditions. After a challenging first-round match against Tristan Schoolkate, Walton will aim to secure another victory over Medvedev. However, the variations in conditions since their previous encounter suggest Medvedev is better positioned to avenge that defeat. In this matchup, Medvedev is also favored to win in three sets.
With every player fighting for progression in the tournament, the intensity and excitement are sure to rise as these matches unfold. Spectators can anticipate a day filled with high-level tennis, showcasing both emerging talent and established stars battling for glory.