Tuesday at the Cincinnati Masters in Ohio looks set to provide plenty of entertaining matches as a number of the biggest stars in the game, not least world #1 and defending champion Novak Djokovic and eight-time former champion Roger Federer, are set to join the action. But who will advance? We also have predictions for more Cincinnati Tuesday matches.
ATP Cincinnati Tuesday Predictions
Stan Wawrinka vs Grigor Dimitrov
Head-to-head: Wawrinka 6-4 Dimitrov
For the second time in as many weeks and the fourth time in the last year, Stan Wawrinka and Grigor Dimitrov will meet in the first round on tour. One can only assume that Dimitrov, who has lost all three of those meetings as well as losing in the third round to Wawrinka at Roland Garros, is heartily sick of seeing the Swiss on the other side of the net. And it is hard to see a different outcome this time around. Dimitrov may be the better mover, but Wawrinka has the power to hammer him into submission and the Bulgarian’s backhand looks extremely vulnerable in cross-court exchanges.
Prediction: Wawrinka in 2
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Gael Monfils vs Frances Tiafoe
Head-to-head: first meeting
It has been another frustrating, injury-hit season for Gael Monfils. The former-world #6 remains one of the most talented players on tour, but he continues to struggle to pair his talent with consistent results. He played very well in Montreal, battling into the semifinals, only to be forced to withdraw injured ahead of his clash with Rafael Nadal. Frances Tiafoe can likely relate to Monfils’ struggles. The American began the season brightly with a run to the quarterfinals at Melbourne Park but has failed to kick on since. He has power and moves well, but his game plan all too often seems lack clarity. If Monfils is fit, he should be able to get the better of the younger man.
Prediction: Monfils in 3
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Roberto Bautista Agut vs Hubert Hurkacz
Head-to-head: first meeting
Hubert Hurkacz has enjoyed a breakthrough season and looks to have a bright future in the game. His easy power off the ground and accurate serve suggest there is significant upside to the young Pole. But Roberto Bautista Agut is having the season of his life after reaching the last eight at the Australian Open and the semifinals at the All England Club. He backed the latter performance up with a good run to the quarterfinals in Montreal. He may not be able to match Hurkacz for power, but he will give away few unforced errors and can do real damage with his flat, driven forehand. Hurkacz has the quality to make this a match, but expect Bautista Agut to prove too strong in the end.
Prediction: Bautista Agut in 3
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Alex De Minaur vs Reilly Opelka
Alex De Minaur scored a fine comeback win over Marco Cecchinato, finishing strongly to complete a 6-7 6-1 6-2 victory after losing the first set. The 20-year-old still lacks the weaponry to challenge the very best in the game, but his court coverage and consistency from the baseline ensure he is always a difficult opponent to face. Reilly Opelka managed to serve his way out of trouble after falling a set down to Borna Coric. The American rallied to win in three, but will need to be at his best against another dangerous returner in De Minaur. The Australian has the defensive qualities to force Opelka to hit one more shot than he will want to. Expect that to prove decisive.
Prediction: De Minaur in 3
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