Former ATP Gstaad finalist Stan Wawrinka makes his 14th and final appearance at the event. The Swiss one-hander faces Portugal’s No. 2, Jaime Faria, in the late match of the day. Who will reach the second round?
ATP Gstaad Day 2 Predictions
Alexandre Muller vs Alexander Shevchenko
Head-to-head: Muller 2-0 Shevchenko
Muller is on a dismal run of form. Defeat to Tommy Paul in the first round of Wimbledon was his eighth in a row. Historically, this surface has rewarded his style of tennis, and if he is to end that barren run, it could be against Shevchenko, whom he has defeated twice in the head-to-head. Still, I don’t expect a quick turnaround from Muller in Gstaad. Shevchenko performed at a decent level on the dirt a month ago and the Kazakh should grind out a much-needed win to extend Muller’s winless streak.
Prediction: Shevchenko in 2
Federico Cina vs Quentin Halys
Head-to-head: first meeting
Halys reached his one and only ATP Tour final in Gstaad a couple of seasons ago. The big-serving Frenchman raced from qualifying, but had little left in the tank and was comprehensively beaten by Matteo Berrettini in the final. Cina is making waves on the Challenger Tour. He won hsi first title at that level in Pune and qualified for his maiden Grand Slam main draw at the French Open. Halys’ track record in the altitude should tip the scales in his favor. He owns the bigger serve and hits a much heavier ball and I think that should make a difference.
Prediction: Halys in 3
Stan Wawrinka vs Jaime Faria
Head-to-head: first meeting
This feels very much like the last hurrah for Stan Wawrinka on a clay court. Unless there is a late wild card into one of the two ATP events next week, Wawrinka is set to play a tour-level tournament on the dirt for the last time in Gstaad. Jaime Faria is one of the most promising young players on tour and belongs in the next wave of talent on the ATP Tour. The only surprise is that he has not converted deep runs in Challenger events into title wins this season. That said, the 22-year-old arrives in Gstaad in good shape and form (26 wins on clay). His movement, consistency, and physical edge will likely wear down the veteran Wawrinka.
Prediction: Faria in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
