Some of the top Russian men’s players are in action on day 2 of the US Open including Daniil Medvedev and Karen Khachanov. Our panelists Yesh Ginsburg and Damian Kust offer their predictions.
Federico Delbonis vs Daniil Medvedev
Damian: This should be an easy-enough start for the Russian. Delbonis doesn’t have the firepower to blow him off the court and he should be the first one to make the error in most of the extended rallies we’re surely going to see. On top of that, Medvedev’s serve is a very potent weapon, Delbonis’ – not so much. Medvedev in 3
Yesh: Medvedev didn’t look great in “Cincinnati,” but he was solid enough to not be troubled against Delbonis. He’s starting his runner-up defense, and shouldn’t have too much trouble in the first round. Medvedev in 3
Frances Tiafoe vs Andreas Seppi
Damian: This matchup resulted in a tight five-setter two years ago at the Australian Open and it has a great chance to go the distance again. Seppi is way past his prime but the past year or so has also gone poorly for Tiafoe. The American, however, showed a slightly higher standard of play losing to Andy Murray in Cincinnati and has everything needed to prevail in an extremely tight match – just like in Australia. Tiafoe in 5
Yesh: Tiafoe is very talented, but he’s never consistently great yet. Seppi seems ageless, and he’s always consistent enough to trouble anyone. If the American can keep his range, he wins this match, but he’ll get a workout in the process. Tiafoe in 4
Daniel Evans vs Thiago Seyboth Wild
Damian: Seyboth Wild has been kinda forgotten since his maiden title in Santiago, as the youngster did not take the court during the break. This can be potentially tricky for Evans but the Brit showed some really good tennis last week and his unusual style is bound to make the youngster confused at times. Evans is in great shape and should be able to find a way. Evans in 4
Yesh: Seyboth Wild is a potential breakout star, though I think it’s still a little early for him. The mercurial Evans looks to be more consistent in this current iteration of his career, so don’t be too troubled. Evans in 4
Karen Khachanov vs Jannik Sinner
Damian: The youngster had a bad loss last week to countryman Salvatore Caruso but with his all-out playstyle, he can be prone to these bad days in the office. Both play a rather similar game and you can expect that balls will be hit very hard in this matchup. Khachanov should be in a lot better match rhythm though, having played three matches in “Cincinnati”. Khachanov in 4
Yesh: Khachanov doesn’t look his best right now, and Sinner is a real talent. This match has upset potential written all over it. It will come down to which of these similar players can stay consistent for longer. Sinner in 5
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