We enter the post US Open hard court Asia swing with some exciting battles for the year end ATP Finals. The ATP Chengdu Open offers valuable 250 points for the competitors to boost their chances and this week promises to be an action packed affair. We at LWOT preview and predict three main draw matches along with a must draw qualifying match.
ATP Chengdu Day 1 Predictions
Qualifying
Omar Jasika vs Pavel Kotov
Head to head – First Meeting
Omar Jasika had to come through a three setter to reach a step closer to a main draw appearance while Pavel Kotov who is the top ranked in qualifying will be feeling good about his chances to enter a main draw. Expect Kotov to draw on his confidence and reach a well deserved main draw appearance.
Prediction: Kotov in 2
Main Draw
Corentin Moutet vs Tao Mu
Head to head – First Meeting
Corentin Moutet isn’t particularly in form entering this part of the season but draw gods have smiled on him with an easy opener. Tao Mu will no doubt receive home support but he will be up against a player who is way ahead of him in the rankings. Expect Moutet to progress swiftly.
Prediction: Moutet in 2
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Taro Daniel vs Aleksandar Vukic
Head to head – First Meeting
This is a pretty even matchup. Taro Daniel is a decent baseliner but so is Aleksandar Vukic but what separates the two is perhaps their serve. Vukic has a better and powerful serve and that may decide this match. Expect a tight battle with the Australian just inching it.
Prediction: Vukic in 3
Brandon Nakashima vs Roman Safiullin
Head to head – First Meeting
Another tight battle for the tennis fans to enjoy in the first round itself. Roman Saifullin will be ruing the two sets to love lead he had in the second round of the US Open but he will have to reset quickly if he’s to beat Brandon Nakashima. The American generally plays well on faster courts and that should bode well for him. Expect Nakashima to be more consistent and wrestle control of the match.
Prediction: Nakashima in 3
Main Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports
