It’s been a long and winding road to get to this point, but the French Open kicks off in Paris on Sunday and we’re set for two weeks of the best clay court tennis you can witness. Our panel of Andrew Watson and Damian Kust offer their predictions for the opening day of action.
Sebastian Korda vs Andreas Seppi
Damian: Korda’s clay-court game shows that his father was once a Roland Garros finalist and he was very impressive in the qualifying campaign. Seppi is no longer a force and hasn’t been able to find his game in a long time. Korda in 4
Andrew: The American did well to qualify through to his first French Open and I would trust his preparation more than Seppi’s. The veteran Italian has been around the block enough times to know what to do but the greater explosiveness of the youngster should carry him through. Korda in 4
Jannik Sinner vs David Goffin
Damian: Jannik Sinner is always someone that could upset a high seed and with Goffin not exactly in great form in Rome, the Italian might have a good shot here. It remains to be soon if he can hit through the court in the slower conditions, but for all we know, his ability to accelerate out of nowhere is amazing. Sinner in 5
Andrew: Both men would’ve wanted an easier first round match and it will be a shame to lose one of them. The greater experience and stamina of the Belgian should see him start off with a win here but watch out for the young Italian to take at least a set. Goffin in 4
Dan Evans vs Kei Nishikori
Damian: This should be aesthetically pleasing but I’m not sure if the level will be high. Nishikori is not 100% fit yet after the injuries and if Evans can make him work for it, we sadly might see the Japanese fade away physically again. Evans in 5
Andrew: This will be a fun match as each tries to work the ball to win points. The fitness of the Japanese may be sorely tested here, if Evans can make it a long match he may be able to outlast Nishikori. Evans in 5
John Isner vs Elliot Benchetrit
Damian: Should be an easy enough win for Isner. Benchetrit got a wildcard here but with his recent form, I don’t think he would have made it through the qualifying event if he had to play it. Isner’s serve should be enough to carry him through, the higher bounce on clay suits him pretty well too, despite the initial instinct. Isner in 3
Andrew: The American usually wins through a couple of rounds in Paris and his big serve will still be a huge weapon in these conditions. Expect him to win through again here. Isner in 4
Main Photo:
