First-round matches at the ATP 1000 tournament in Cincinnati will continue on Friday following a rainy Day 1, bringing excitement and anticipation for the matches lined up. Here, we preview and predict the outcomes of the upcoming matches as players vie for progress into the next rounds.
In the matchup between Daniel Altmaier and Roberto Bautista Agut, this will be their first encounter. Bautista Agut, who reached the semifinals of this event in 2020, has seen his performance slightly affected by age, impacting both his speed and groundstrokes. Altmaier, however, struggles on hard courts with a low career win rate of 31%. Despite not having played on hard surfaces this summer, Bautista Agut’s experience may help him edge out a win, potentially extending the match into a third set. Prediction: Bautista Agut in 3.
Another intriguing match features Adam Walton against Mariano Navone. Walton has been impressive this summer, having recently pushed Alexander Zverev to the limit in Toronto and reaching the finals of an ATP 250 event in Los Cabos. As Navone comes into this matchup as a lucky loser with limited hard-court experience this season, Walton is favored to take the win, although Navone’s past credentials as a former Top 30 player add some unpredictability. Prediction: Walton in 3.
Finally, Aleksandar Vukic faces off against Nishesh Basavareddy, marking their first meeting as well. Vukic enters the match after a strong showing in Toronto, filling the spot left by Gael Monfils, who withdrew due to injury. Although Basavareddy has been struggling recently, he will have the advantage of home crowd support. Nevertheless, Vukic’s preparation from qualifying matches positions him well for this contest. Prediction: Vukic in 3.
As the tournament progresses, fans can look forward to thrilling encounters as players fight for victory. The stage is set for an exhilarating continuation of the Cincinnati tournament weekend.