A mix of first-round and some second-round matches are scheduled on Day 3 of the ATP Almaty Open. This article features #6 seed Alex Michelsen, who will take on local talent Beibit Zhukayev. As always, we at LWOT will offer predictions for every match on the slate. But who will advance?
ATP Almaty Day 3 Predictions
Arthur Cazaux vs Shintaro Mochizuki
Head-to-Head: Cazaux 1-0 Mochizuki
Arthur Cazaux won a Challenger title two days ago, where he lost just one set in the whole tournament. He also defeated Shintaro Mochizuki en route to the title and will be a heavy favourite to win again. Mozhizuki’s serve was ineffective against Cazaux, and he must do a better job this time to make this match close. I am backing the Frenchman to win this in three sets if not two.
Prediction: Cazaux in 3
Gabriel Diallo vs James Duckworth
Head-to-Head: Diallo 1-0 Duckworth
Last year’s finalist, Gabriel Diallo, is off to a solid start as he lost just four games in his first round match. Diallo has shown good consistency this season, and his serve is a big weapon on these indoor courts. James Duckworth will be a tough test for the Canadian, but his game is well-prepared to tackle this challenge. It was a much-needed main draw win for Duckworth in the first round, but I don’t trust him against this level of opponent.
Prediction: Diallo in 2
Corentin Moutet vs Alexander Shevchenko
Head-to-Head: Moutet 2-0 Shevchenko
Corentin Moutet defeated an inspired Bernard Tomic in straight sets to get his first win at the Almaty Open. He is looking for a big week, and this is his chance if he can play to his potential. Alexander Shevchenko was involved in a thrilling first-round encounter against Laslo Djere and saved multiple set points in the second set to close the match. He has never beaten the Frenchman and should be confident with the fans behind him. This can go either way, but I am trusting Moutet’s extra variety to disrupt Shevchenko’s game and get the win.
Prediction: Moutet in 3
Alex Michelsen vs Beibit Zhukayev
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Alex Michelsen desperately needs some match wins to finish his season on a good note and go into the off-season with some confidence. He is on a five-match losing streak and faces a tough challenge in the first round. Beibit Zhukayev reached the quarterfinals here last season and will enjoy playing at home once again. Michelsen is the better player, but his form is concerning.
Prediction: Zhukayev in 3
Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch – USA TODAY Sports
