The highly talented 19-year-old Jakub Mensik is one of the men in action on Day 2 in Shanghai. He will face the gritty Pedro Martinez for a place in the second round. That is one of four matches predicted in this article. We at LWOT predict the other Day 2 contests in three separate articles, including Stan Wawrinka vs Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, Matteo Berrettini vs Christopher O’Connell, and Zhizhen Zhang vs Zizou Bergs.
ATP Shanghai Day 2 Predictions
David Goffin vs James Duckworth
Head-to-head: Duckworth 1-0 Goffin
This will be both men’s first match of the Asian swing. Goffin played very well during the North American hardcourt season and is looking to continue that in Shanghai. Expect plenty of lengthy exchanges between two men adept at extending rallies. Goffin has performed well in 2024 after some challenging moments in the last few years, and his confidence might make the difference in this matchup.
Prediction: Goffin in 3
Aleksandar Kovacevic vs Terence Atmane
Head-to-head: First meeting
Kovacevic has lost his opening two matches in Asia, while Atmane qualified for the main draw in Shanghai with two victories. Although Kovacevic reached a career-high ranking of No. 72 last month and Atmane is outside the Top 100, the Frenchman is backed to cause an upset. Atmane’s left-handed forehand is capable of exploiting Kovacevic’s one-handed backhand, which could be a route to success.
Prediction: Atmane in 3
Tallon Griekspoor vs Facundo Diaz Acosta
Head-to-head: First meeting
Griekspoor was dismantled 1-6 2-6 by the eventual champion, Carlos Alcaraz, at the China Open last week. However, this is an ideal chance for the Dutchman to get back on track quickly. Diaz Acosta has improved on all surfaces in 2024, but he remains a clay court specialist. Griekspoor’s greater ability on hard courts is likely to see him into the next round.
Prediction: Griekspoor in 2
Jakub Mensik vs Pedro Martinez
Head-to-head: First meeting
Mensik undoubtedly possesses the greater natural talent in this matchup. His clean hitting will be too good on a hardcourt for Martinez if he finds his range, but the Czech remains inconsistent at his young age. Martinez is one of the most solid competitors on the ATP Tour and reaches a similar level in most matches. It is up to Mensik to produce his best to overcome that. This might come down to the wire, but the 19-year-old is narrowly favored to win.
Prediction: Mensik in 3
Main Photo Credit: Andy Abeyta/Desert Sun/USAToday Network
