Action in the lead up to the Australian Open turn to the ATP ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand, as the players look to put themselves in the best possible shape to compete at the first Grand Slam of the year. We here at LWOS provide you insight into the lineup of matches on Day 1. Who do you back to progress?
ATP Auckland Day 1 Predictions
Luciano Darderi vs Nuno Borges
Head-to-Head: First Meeting
Luciano Darderi and Nuno Borges are both struggling for form heading into their first ATP meeting. Darderi has had a disappointing run in recent months, with early exits in multiple tournaments, while Borges has been inconsistent, failing to make significant breakthroughs. Their shared struggles make this match difficult to predict, but with both players battling for confidence, the outcome could be a closely contested affair, with either player having the opportunity to seize a much-needed victory.
Prediction: Borges in 3
Roberto Carballés Baena vs Lucas Pouille
Head-to-Head: Carballés Baena 2:2 Pouille
Roberto Carballés Baena and Lucas Pouille face off in a closely matched encounter, with their head-to-head record tied at 2-2, all from meetings on the Challenger circuit and on clay. Carballés Baena has been inconsistent of late and primarily excels on slower surfaces which leaves him at a bigger disadvantage coming into this match. While Pouille is working to regain form after injury struggles. Pouille’s hard-court experience gives him a slight edge, though Carballés Baena’s resilience could make this a tightly contested match.
Prediction: Pouille in 2
Zizou Bergs vs Isaac Becroft
Head-to-Head: First Meeting
Zizou Bergs enters his matchup against Isaac Becroft as the favorite, given his greater experience on the ATP Tour and recent performances at higher-tier events. While Bergs holds a ranking advantage and has competed against stronger opposition, Becroft has shown promise on the ITF circuit, reaching the semifinals of the M15 Tauranga in late 2024. This will be their first career meeting, and while Becroft could pose a challenge, Bergs’ experience should give him an edge.
Prediction: Bergs in 2
Alex Michelson vs Sumit Nagal
Head-to-Head: First Meeting
Alex Michelsen, ranked No. 41, enters his match against Sumit Nagal as the favorite. Michelsen has been in strong form recently, with notable performances on the ATP Tour. Nagal, on the other hand, has been impressive in qualifying rounds, securing key wins that have boosted his confidence. While Michelsen’s higher ranking and consistent results give him the edge, Nagal’s resilience in qualifiers suggests he could make this a competitive match.
Prediction: Michelson in 3
Main Photo Credit: Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK
