Six first-round matches will be played on Day 2 of the ATP Delray Beach Open. Former champions Kei Nishikori and Reilly Opelka will be in action against Mackenzie McDonald and Christopher Eubanks respectively. As always, we at LWOT will offer predictions for every match on the slate. But which players will advance to the next round?
ATP Delray Beach Day 1 Predictions
Arthur Rinderknech vs Gabriel Diallo
Head-to-Head: first meeting
This season couldn’t have begun any worse for Arthur Rinderknech, as he has lost five of his six matches, all on his best surface, which is a worrying sign. The Frenchman is averaging a career-low win percentage behind his second serve and is also making more double faults than usual. Gabriel Diallo can take advantage by putting extra pressure on Rinderknech’s second serve. Diallo is also in better form and should make the most of it on his preferred indoor surface.
Prediction: Diallo in 3
Reilly Opelka vs Christopher Eubanks
Head-to-Head: Opelka 2-0 Eubanks
It has been a very positive start to the season for Reilly Opelka, reaching the semifinals in Brisbane and making the quarterfinals last week in Dallas. Opelka is a former Delray Beach Open champion and also made the finals the last time he played in 2022. Christopher Eubanks has a good serve, but it’s not as good and effective as Opelka’s. Eubanks’ form is also a concern as he has yet to hit top gear this season. I am backing Opelka to win in a couple of tight sets.
Prediction: Opelka in 2
Kei Nishikori vs Mackenzie McDonald
Head-to-Head: Nishikori 1-1 McDonald
2008 champion Kei Nishikori is returning to the Delray Beach Open after 11 long years and will be looking for a good run. Nishikori came up against the best level of Tomas Machac in Dallas last week and never got a chance to get in the match. Mackenzie McDonald has a great record in Dallas and has made Nishikori suffer in their previous matches. However, he hasn’t shown his best level in quite a long time and injuries have played a significant role in that. I am going with the Japanese superstar to edge this one.
Prediction: Nishikori in 3
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
