Main draw action at the ATP Astana Open in Nur-Sultan, Kazahkstan begins on Monday. Qualifying rounds will be completed, as will four main draw matches. As always, we’re here to offer you our thoughts on main draw play. Who do you think will win in Kazahkstan on Monday?
ATP Astana Open Day 1 Predictions
Andreas Seppi vs Timofey Skatov
Skatov is a wild card here, ranked just inside the Top 300. At only 20 years of age, he’s definitely a potential talent. Unfortunately for the young Kazakh, he’s facing an opponent who is playing really well. Seppi pulled off a huge upset at the US Open this month, and even at 37 years old the Italian is playing strong tennis. Perhaps the home court advantage could keep this close, but Seppi should be the much better player.
Prediction: Seppi in 2
Fernando Verdasco vs Miomir Kecmanovic
Honestly, I’m excited about this match, and you should be too. Both of these men are prodigious shotmakers, yet mercurial on the court. They can bring the highest levels of highlight-reel tennis, or they can bring awful errors. Which will we see from them? I have no idea! You never really can guess matches when either of these players compete, let alone both of them. I guess I trust Verdasco more in tougher situations, but this really could go either way.
Prediction: Verdasco in 3
Laslo Djere vs Daniel Elahi Galan
Galan is always a tough matchup. He’s incredibly talented and has a bright future, but he’s also struggled at times when he really shouldn’t have. Djere is more solid and consistent from the back of the court, and on an indoor hard court that difference can be even more pivotal.
Prediction: Djere in 2
Jiri Vesely vs Jaume Munar
If this tournament was on clay, I would easily take Munar. The young Spaniard is a master behind the baseline, playing tremendous defense and counterpunching, eventually. Unfortunately, he has not yet learned how to be aggressive and take advantage when his opponents give him opportunities. On a fast indoor hard court, his brand of tennis just won’t work. Vesely’s game, on the other hand, suits this court perfectly. I expect to see the Czech cruise, blasting winners past his opponent all match.
Prediction: Vesely in 2
Main Photo from Getty.
