Day 2 of the ATP Open 13 Provence sees seven Round of 32 matches scheduled in Marseille. Some top names begin their campaign here in Marseille, including the likes of home favorite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. We preview and predict all seven of the clashes. Four are in this article, and the other three are in a second article.
ATP Marseille Day 2 Predictions
Benjamin Bonzi vs Matthew Ebden
Head to head – First Meeting
Benjamin Bonzi has impressed this on the Challenger Tour and has shown he can be a tricky opponent on the fast indoor courts. The Frenchman will look to get off a winning start against Matthew Ebden who has had no momentum whatsoever this year. Expect Bonzi to make a strong start here.
Prediction: Bonzi in 2
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs Petros Tsitsipas
Head to head – First Meeting
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina will be disappointed with his last two tournaments as the Spaniard looked to be playing at a high level only to lose tight matches. Petros Tsitsipas is on a wild card here and should feel overpowered from the baseline. Davidovich Fokina should be able to boss points and progress ahead.
Prediction: Davidovich Fokina in 2
Mackenzie McDonald vs Stefano Travaglia
Head to head – First Meeting
Mackenzie McDonald has had a decent start to the year, reaching the last 16 in Melbourne and a win at a challenger event. The American will be pleased with his first round draw as it’s against a player who’s playing a singles match after a month. The Italian doesn’t possess the firepower to hit through McDonald and that should prove decisive in the outcome of this match.
Prediction: McDonald in 2
Kei Nishikori vs Pierre-Hugues Herbert
Head to head – Nishikori 2-1 Herbert
This is must watch encounter. Kei Nishikori would’ve liked an easier first round opponent as Pierre-Hugues Herbert plays his best in indoor conditions. The Frenchman loves to serve and volley and can rush his opponents. However, it was very refreshing to see Nishikori’s game in Rotterdam last week as he competed at a very high level and if he can keep that up he should just edge this one.
Prediction: Nishikori in 3
Main Photo from Getty.
