Round 2 of the 2019 French Open is set to conclude on Thursday with Novak Djokovic and British #1 Kyle Edmund among the players in action. Steen Kirby and Yesh Ginsburg offer their predictions for these matches and matches featuring Gael Monfils and Dominic Thiem
Novak Djokovic vs Henri Laaksonen
Yesh: Laaksonen was super impressive in his opening match against qualifier Pedro Martinez. That won’t be enough to challenge Djokovic, but don’t be shocked if a few of the sets are close. Djokovic in 3
Steen: Djokovic will ease into the third round and likely demolish the Finnish/Swiss journeyman who is best known for playing Davis Cup alongside Federer and Wawrinka. Laaksonen won’t be intimidated but it won’t matter. Djokovic in 3
Taylor Fritz vs Roberto Bautista Agut
Yesh: Taylor Fritz is the last American man standing in the draw. It’s a sad situation for American tennis, but he might just have the upset in him to avenge Steve Johnson’s loss. Fritz in 4
Steen: Fritz is playing well and despite being less accomplished overall, and on clay, there’s a case to be made he should be favored in this match. RBA has been out of form all Spring and he looks quite vulnerable in this match. Fritz in 5
Karen Khachanov vs Gregoire Barrere
Yesh: Barrerre was solid in defeating Matthew Ebden, but Khachanov looked incredible in dismissing Cedrik-Marcel Stebe. This won’t be close. Khachanov in 3
Steen: Khachanov should be pleased with his draw here, Barrere has limited experience at this level and this should be an easy win for an upper tier ATP player like the Russian. Khachanov in 3
Kyle Edmund vs Pablo Cuevas
Yesh: This should very quietly be one of the better matches of the round. Cuevas is a strong clay courter, but Edmund is probably generally more solid. Still, Edmund hasn’t been his best, and he had to play five sets (over two days) in his opening round. Cuevas in 5
Steen: Edmund’s poor form going into the French Open and his tough five set win against Chardy in round 1 suggests that Cuevas has a significant advantage in this match, he’s a good clay courter and should be fresher. With that said, Edmund could ride an emotional wave to a win, but I have significant doubts about his form and fitness. Cuevas in 3
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