The final week on the ATP Tour before the year-end finals in Turin features tournaments in Metz and Belgrade. Day 1 in Metz begins on Sunday with two main draw matches and the final qualifying contests. We at LWOT predict both main draw matches and the best of the qualifying action in this article.
ATP Metz Day 1 Predictions
Quentin Halys vs Gregoire Barrere (Qualifying)
Head-to-head: First Meeting
Halys has been consistently coming through qualifying since reaching the final of a Challenger tournament in Mouilleron-le-Captif at the start of October. Barrere’s recent performances have left a lot to be desired. Although Halys likes playing on clay, his powerful game suits indoor conditions when he is near his best. He is the favorite to overcome Barrere.
Prediction: Halys in 2
Arthur Cazaux vs Pierre-Hugues Herbert (Qualifying)
Head-to-head: Herbert 1-0 Cazaux
Cazaux played very well at the Paris Masters, and his level from that tournament would undoubtedly be good enough against Herbert. However, Herbert beat Cazaux in Metz last year, and the 33-year-old’s formidable serve is always a threat. Cazuax is still backed to win, but it could be an awkward challenge for him to navigate.
Prediction: Cazaux in 3
Corentin Moutet vs Sumit Nagal
Head-to-head: Moutet 1-1 Nagal
These two had tough and grueling three-set battles on clay earlier this year. Nagal’s recent form has been awful, with just one victory since August. Moutet is a mercurial character, but he competed impressively against Ben Shelton at the Paris Masters. He will not need to be at his best if Nagal performs as poorly as the last few months.
Prediction: Moutet in 2
Alex Michelsen vs Harold Mayot
Head-to-head: First Meeting
Michelsen proved how dangerous his game can be in a 6-1 6-3 thrashing of Hubert Hurkacz in Paris. Mayot’s game in the rallies is based much more on grit and athleticism, although the Frenchman does possess a decent serve. But Michelsen’s game on the indoor courts in Metz is well-equipped to handle and hit through Mayot’s defense.
Prediction: Michelsen in 2
Main Photo Credit: Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK
