Along with all the remaining first-round matches, three clashes from the next stage of the event will also be completed on Wednesday at the 2024 Open Sud de France. Former champion Alexander Bublik begins his campaign against Denis Shapovalov. Who do you think will prevail at ATP Montpellier?
ATP Montpellier Day 3 Predictions
Michael Mmoh vs Alexandre Muller
Head-to-head: First meeting
Alexandre Muller improved his game with all the main tour experience he’s gotten of late and should be posting wins somewhat regularly now. His first-round draw was fairly soft, but he did well to convert it and now finds himself in another winnable matchup. Michael Mmoh has an excellent indoor record on the Challenger Tour, but his appearances at the higher level haven’t been too great. Against a player who won’t overpower him, though, it seems like the American could take the rallies here to a pattern he’s comfortable with.
Predictions: Mmoh in 3
Benoit Paire vs Harold Mayot
Head-to-head: First meeting
It’s quite an opportunity for both players. Harold Mayot started the year with some very solid results and while generally his game doesn’t scream out ‘massive indoor potential’, he has definitely improved his serve over the years, especially in terms of the ace rate. This will be one of these matches where Benoit Paire likely has it on his racket, but will have to keep himself in check and limit the error count. He served his way to the win against Andy Murray, so maybe the motivation is at an extra high level right now.
Predictions: Paire in 3
Denis Shapovalov vs Alexander Bublik
Head-to-head: Bublik 2-0
Denis Shapovalov scored his first win since he came back to the tour by demolishing Hugo Gaston in the opening round. If healthy, the Canadian should still have enough talent to find his way to the sport again. But it’s going to be a long journey with lots of setbacks. This might be one of them, as Alexander Bublik seems to have a very nice matchup against him, mostly with how big servers tend to have an easy target on the Shapovalov one-handed backhand return. The Kazakh also won this event two years ago and likes the conditions.
Predictions: Bublik in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke – USA TODAY Sports
