It promises to be an exciting day of ATP Rio action. Francisco Cerundolo, who won last week’s Argentina Open, is swiftly back in action against Mariano Navone. This article also predicts the matches of two-time defending champion Sebastian Baez and Tomas Martin Etcheverry. We here at LWOT cover the other contests, including Joao Fonseca vs Thiago Monteiro and Matteo Berrettini vs Marcelo Tomas Barrios Vera, separately. But who will advance?

ATP Rio Day 2 Predictions
Tomas Martin Etcheverry vs Francisco Comesana

Head-to-head: Etcheverry 1-1 Comesana

Etcheverry was defeated by Cerundolo at the Argentina Open, while Comesana lost in the opening round to Camilo Ugo Carabelli. The former possesses more powerful groundstrokes, especially with his formidable forehand. Despite being a clay-court specialist with a previous victory against Etcheverry, Comesana’s defense will not hold up if Etcheverry plays well again. His performances in Buenos Aires last week indicate he likely will.

Prediction: Etcheverry in 2

Sebastian Baez vs Jaime Faria

Head-to-head: First meeting

Faria pushing Andrey Rublev in a close four-set battle at the Australian Open showed what he is capable of. However, he enters this match as a lucky loser after a poor performance in the final qualifying round. The Portuguese player needs a significant improvement to have any chance against the defending champion. His inconsistency makes it impossible to confidently back him against Baez, who consistently thrives during this time of the season.

Prediction: Baez in 2

Francisco Cerundolo vs Mariano Navone

Head-to-head: Cerundolo 1-1 Navone

Facing the No. 1 seed and recent Argentina Open champion is a daunting task for Navone. Two factors give him a glimmer of hope: he was the 2024 runner-up in Rio, and Cerundolo could be physically and mentally tired after last week’s exertions. While notable points, Cerundolo remains the more likely winner. The seven-time ATP finalist, six of them on clay, is physically strong, and one of the most likely players to refocus swiftly after a title run.

Prediction: Cerundolo in 2

Main Photo Credit: David Kirouac – USA TODAY Sports