The early rounds in ATP Toronto have already offered a mix of tight battles and statement wins, with several players carrying good momentum from the summer swing. As the draw starts to take shape, matchups are beginning to throw up more direct contrasts in style, experience, and recent form — the kind of ingredients that often lead to compelling contests. As always we here at LWOS bring you predictions for all the matches on offer but who do you back to triumph?
ATP Toronto Day 3 Predictions
Roman Safiullin vs Casper Ruud
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Roman Safiullin put in a solid performance in his opening match, serving well and staying aggressive from the baseline. Casper Ruud has had a less than ideal year overall and is still searching for his best on hard courts this summer. This will be their first meeting, and the matchup could hinge on who controls the center of the court. If Safiullin keeps applying pressure early, Ruud may need time to settle into the rhythm.
Prediction: Safiullin in 3
Tomas Barrios Vera vs Alex Michelsen
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Tomas Barrios Vera came through qualifying and backed it up with a confident first-round win, showing his ability to absorb pace and pick his moments. Alex Michelsen will be playing his first match of the North American hard court swing and may need time to adjust to the conditions. This is a tricky opener for him, especially against a player who’s already well-grooved. If Michelsen can impose his first-strike game early, he’ll give himself a good shot but he may not get much time to settle.
Prediction: Michelsen in 3
Tristan Schoolkate vs Matteo Arnaldi
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Matteo Arnaldi received a bye into the second round and will be stepping into action for the first time in Toronto. Tristan Schoolkate handled his opener against Joao Fonseca well, using his serve effectively and staying composed in key moments. This is their first meeting, and if Schoolkate starts fast, it could take Arnaldi a while to adjust to the conditions. Both players like to take the ball early, so expect some quick-fire exchanges throughout.
Prediction: Schoolkate in 3
Denis Shapovalov vs Learner Tien
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Denis Shapovalov enters Toronto with confidence after winning the title in Los Cabos, his first this year, and will be looking to carry that form into his opening match here. Tien impressed in his first-round win, staying calm under pressure and striking cleanly off both wings. This will be their first meeting, and while the gap in experience is wide, Tien’s movement and consistency could pose questions if he keeps the rallies long. Shapovalov will want to keep points short and stay in control early.
Prediction: Shapovalov in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
