American players aren’t known for their prowess on clay, but Jack Sock vs Reilly Opelka is an intriguing matchup in the first round of the French Open. Our panel of Yesh Ginsburg and Damian Kust offer their predictions.
Daniil Medvedev vs Marton Fucsovics
Yesh: Medvedev doesn’t like the clay and hasn’t played well since his US Open semifinal loss to Dominic Thiem. Fucsovics, meanwhile, is just a solid player who can trouble anyone not playing their best. Don’t be shocked to see an upset here. Fucsovics in 4
Damian: Fucsovics played Medvedev close on clay in the past and we know he’s a gritty competitor. But it will be very hard for him to hit through the court here and the Russian should take advantage of that. Medvedev in 4
John Millman vs Pablo Carreno Busta
Yesh: The clay neutralizes Millman’s biggest weapons, while Carreno Busta is fine on this surface and is playing well. Carreno Busta in 3
Damian: John Millman is rarely a factor on clay and he should be in trouble here against a much more experienced opponent on this surface. Carreno Busta is one of the rare Spaniards who don’t prioritize clay but he should use that confidence from making the semifinals at the US Open to make a decent run here. Carreno Busta in 3
Pedro Martinez vs Aleksandar Vukic
Yesh: Martinez is a name to watch for in the future. He’s yet another rising member of the Spanish Armada, and expect him to catch some attention here. Martinez in 3
Damian: This is a bit unfortunate for the two qualifiers, as they both could make an upset or two if placed somewhere else in the draw. Martinez has a higher tennis acumen and a way less one-dimensional game than Vukic though. Martinez in 4
Jack Sock vs Reilly Opelka
Yesh: Sock is finally out of his horrible slump, but he’s nowhere near his peak self. Opelka, meanwhile, looks as solid as ever. Neither loves the clay, but Opelka’s serve will see him through. Opelka in 4
Damian: Sock has finally found some determination to come back to the top of the game and his qualifying run was full of effort from the American. Opelka’s serve should also hurt less in these slower conditions. Sock in 4
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