The quest to dethrone Taylor Fritz as the champion at the ATP Delray Beach Open continues with some potentially explosive matches lined up for the second day. We at LWOT offer our predictions on who will advance.
ATP Delray Beach Day 2 Predictions Including Yoshihito Nishioka vs Aleksandar Vukic
Rinky Hijikata vs Yunchaokete Bu
Head–to–Head: First Meeting
Even though they had previously faced each other in the junior circuit, this match marks the first ATP Tour-level meeting between Bu and Hijikata.
Bu’s hard-court proficiency is evident from his Challenger titles and his performance against higher-ranked opponents.
Hijikata, on the other hand, exhibits a versatile game; his adaptability across surfaces is notable, though, with significant wins on hard courts, including his performance at the Delray Beach Open in 2024, where he reached the quarterfinals.
Evenly balanced contest, Hijikata’s experience and success in North American tournaments, particularly his past performance at this event, could tip the scales in his favour.
Prediction: Hijikata in 3
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs James Duckworth
Head–to–Head: Fokina 0 vs 1 Duckworth
While James Duckworth won their only previous encounter, it’s essential to consider the progression of both players since 2019. Davidovich Fokina has significantly improved, reaching higher rankings and performing strongly in major tournaments. His fourth-round appearance at the Australian Open is a testament to his progress.
Duckworth’s experience and comfort on hard courts give him a solid foundation. However, his recent performances have been less consistent than Davidovich Fokina‘s, and given the trajectory both have headed, the Spaniard’s aggressive playstyle and adaptability on hard courts will give him the edge over the Australian.
Prediction: Davidovich Fokina in 2
Yoshihito Nishioka vs Aleksandar Vukic
Head–to–Head: Nishioka 2 vs 2 Vukic
Both players have shown competence on hard courts, with Nishioka carrying a career win percentage of 64% on indoor hard courts, while Vukic has a 61% win rate on the same surface.
Nishioka’s recent consistency and slightly better form in key areas may give him a marginal advantage. However, Vukic’s strong serving ability, highlighted by his higher ace count, could be a significant factor if he maintains a high first-serve percentage. Given the evenly matched profiles, the outcome may hinge on critical points and mental fortitude during the match.
Fully fit, the Japanese player is more than capable of winning this, but it remains to be seen what version of him steps on the court, considering he retired just a few days ago in Dallas against Casper Ruud. I’ll back the equally capable Australian to take advantage of any slip.
Prediction: Vukic in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
