The ATP 500 in Acapulco kicks off with some great matches on Day 1. What do you expect from all the matches across the grounds on Monday? As always, we share our thoughts on the day with you. We split the day’s matches between three articles. In addition to this one, the other two feature Taylor Fritz vs John Isner and Ben Shelton vs Holger Rune. Who do you expect to advance?
ATP Acapulco Day 1 Predictions
Casper Ruud vs Guido Andreozzi
Ruud reached two Grand Slam finals last year, but he hasn’t quite been the same since that US Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz. Still, he’s a strong player. If he’s not playing like the World #2 anymore, he looks like a Top 15 player. And that should easily get him through this match.
Prediction: Ruud in 2
Denis Shapovalov vs Miomir Kecmanovic
Shapovalov seems to be in the midst of another slump, though nowhere near as bad as his slump a few years ago. His talent is undeniable, but when his game falls apart things can get rough pretty quickly. Kecmanovic isn’t in top form himself, but he’s solid enough to let the Canadian beat himself.
Prediction: Kecmanovic in 3
Frances Tiafoe vs Yoshihito Nishioka
Tiafoe still looks good since that stunning US Open semifinal run last year. Nishioka is a solid enough player, but the American is playing great tennis right now, finally maximizing his powerful game. He won’t be beatable here.
Prediction: Tiafoe in 2
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
