First-round action continues on Day 2 at ATP Beijing as some of the world’s best begin their quest for this 500-level title. Ten matches are on the slate, including Carlos Alcaraz vs Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard and Andrey Rublev vs Pablo Carreno Busta. This article features predictions that include Daniil Medvedev vs. Gael Monfils. Who do you think will advance?
ATP Beijing Day 2 Predictions
Stan Wawrinka vs Jan-Lennard Struff
Head-to-Head: Wawrinka 0-1
Stan Wawrinka and Jan-Lennard Struff are set to square off for the first time in nearly eight years. The now 39-year-old Wawrinka is still battling but has not defeated a player ranked inside the top 40 (Struff is currently No. 38) since Sept. 2023. However, the German could be vulnerable in this match. Struff is just 2-7 in his last nine hardcourt matches. If Wawrinka can dial in that patented one-handed backhand, I could see him pulling the upset.
Prediction: Wawrinka in 3
Juncheng Shang vs Yunchaokete Bu
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Young countrymen Juncheng Shang and Yunchaokete Bu square off for the first time at ATP Beijing. Three years younger than Bu, Shang has already experienced more tour-level success. Coming off his first ATP title in Chengdu, Shang holds a career-high ranking of No. 55. His game is built for fast-paced hardcourts. Bu has played brilliant tennis this season, posting a 35-16 record at all levels. That said, Shang’s form and confidence will be hard for him to overcome.
Prediction: Shang in 2
Daniil Medvedev vs Gael Monfils
Head-to-Head: Medvedev 2-2 Monfils
Daniil Medvedev and Gael Monfils have split their four meetings. However, Medvedev waxed the Frenchman 6-4 6-2 earlier this year (on the clay, no less!). Medvedev went 0-2 in singles play at the Laver Cup but should be ramped up to end the season in strong fashion. Monfils has won just three matches since Wimbledon and once again gets a poor draw against the No. 3 seed. Monfils will keep this entertaining, but Medvedev will raise his level when it matters most.
Prediction: Medvedev in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke – USA TODAY Sports
