The opening day of the Next Gen ATP Finals was full of surprises. Will that continue on Day 2? Or will the more experienced players find their way to the top as we begin to sort who will reach the semifinals? Who do you think will win in Saudi Arabia on Thursday?
Next Gen ATP Finals Day 2 Predictions
Dino Prizmic vs Justin Engel
Both of these players lost their opening matches, but Prizmic was much more impressive in his loss. He stuck close to Nishesh Basavareddy for most of it, while Engel was thoroughly broken down by Alexander Blockx. Unless Engel turns things around for this one, he’s starting at an 0-2 start.
Prediction: Prizmic in 3
Alexander Blockx vs Nishesh Basavareddy
In a lot of ways, these two were the most impressive players on Day 1. I could definitely see either of them winning this entire event. But Basavareddy did it against a far more seasoned opponent, so I have to trust the American. But I’m not particularly confident about it.
Prediction: Basavareddy in 5
Nicolai Budkov Kjaer vs Rafael Jodar
Jodar had the single best performance on Day 1, stunning Learner Tien in five sets. Jodar just held his serve and played huge in the tiebreaks, which got him past the finish line. Budkov Kjaer was solid against a hapless-looking Martin Landaluce, but he did not play nearly as well as Jodar did in the opener.
Prediction: Jodar in 4
Learner Tien vs Martin Landaluce
Tien has to be kicking himself for his opening-day loss, but he didn’t play particularly terribly. Landaluce did. Unless the Spaniard can find some form, and fast, he is going to be run out of this tournament very quickly.
Prediction: Tien in 3
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