Amanda Anisimova vs Lulu Sun

Amanda Anisimova vs Lulu Sun

Toronto, Hard Court – 1/32‑Finals

🧠 Form & Context

• Amanda Anisimova
  • 🇺🇸 Fresh off her first Grand Slam final at Wimbledon (runner‑up to Swiatek), she’s rocketed into the top‑10.
  • 🎾 Titles this season: Doha champion, Queen’s Club finalist, Charleston semifinalist.
  • 💪 On hard courts: 11–6 in 2025, playing with aggressive groundstrokes and confidence.
• Lulu Sun
  • 🇳🇿 Slipped to No. 97 after early Wimbledon exit; defending points from 2024 QF but lost in R1.
  • 🎯 Broke through in Montreal with a straight‑sets win over Cîrstea (6–3, 7–5).
  • ⏳ Last back‑to‑back wins on tour were nearly four months ago—rust could show against a top‑10 rival.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Head‑to‑head: First career meeting.
• Power Baseline: Anisimova’s heavy, flat drives will push Sun off the court. Sun’s lefty spin and angles can disrupt rhythm, but extended rallies will favor Anisimova.
• Serve & Return: Anisimova’s elite return game will pressure Sun’s serve early. Sun needs a high first‑serve percentage to keep points short.
• Mental Edge: Riding the high of a Slam final, Anisimova’s belief is sky‑high. Sun’s confidence is dented by a tough swing and the weight of defending points.

🔮 Prediction

Amanda Anisimova in straight sets.

Likely score: 6–2, 6–3

Belinda Bencic vs Eugenie Bouchard

Belinda Bencic vs Eugenie Bouchard

Toronto, Hard Court – 1/32‑Finals

🧠 Form & Context

• Belinda Bencic
  • 🇨🇭 Back from maternity leave in October 2024, she’s hit top gear with a hard‑court title (Abu Dhabi) and a Wimbledon semifinal.
  • 🎾 Canadian Open pedigree: Won here in 2015 and reached the QF in 2013; thrives on big‑match stages.
  • 🔋 Confidence high: Survived four tight matches at Wimbledon, showing clutch nerves and fitness.
• Eugenie Bouchard
  • 🇨🇦 Retiring after this event, she earned her first win in over a year (def. Arango 6–4, 2–6, 6–2).
  • 🏓 Transitioning to pickleball: Brings competitive fire but limited recent match‑play.
  • 📉 Struggles vs. top opposition: Has not beaten a top‑20 player since 2017.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Head‑to‑head: Bencic leads 3–0, including wins in Toronto 2015 (6‑0, 7‑5) and Ostrava 2022 (6‑7, 6‑1, 6‑4).
• Power vs. pressure: Bencic’s penetrating groundstrokes and return game will dominate baseline exchanges. Bouchard must mix slices and come forward, but lack of rhythm may betray her under pressure.
• Serve dynamics: Bencic’s serve generates easy points; Bouchard’s first‑serve percentage has dipped in her comeback, giving Bencic early break chances.
• Mental edge: Bencic’s big‑match temperament contrasts with Bouchard’s farewell nerves—expect the Swiss to capitalize on momentum swings.

🔮 Prediction

Belinda Bencic to sail through in straight sets.

Likely score: 6–3, 6–2

Alex de Minaur vs Francisco Comesaña

Alex de Minaur vs Francisco Comesaña

Toronto, Hard Court – 1/32‑Finals

🧠 Form & Context

• Alex de Minaur
  • 🏆 Momentum: Just won his first 2025 title in Washington, beating top opponents en route and clinching the championship in a tight final against Davidovich Fokina.
  • 🔟 Top‑10 status regained: Climbed back into the world’s top 10 and will aim to solidify his spot with another solid hard‑court swing.
  • 📍 Toronto pedigree: Finalist here in 2023—his best Masters result—and unbeaten by non‑top‑10 opponents in big events when fully fit.
  • 💨 Endurance question: Deep Washington run (SF + final) could leave him a bit fatigued, but his trademark speed and defense are still elite.
• Francisco Comesaña
  • 🎯 Breakthrough season: A career‑high 23 tour‑level wins in 2025, including 13 main‑draw victories—his previous best was just four.
  • 🆚 Top‑20 giant‑killer: Holds a remarkable 4–2 career record versus top‑20 foes, showcasing his ability to punch above his ranking.
  • 🌱 Toronto debutant: First appearance at this Masters, but coming off a confidence‑boosting R1 win over Dzumhur.
  • ⚖️ Game style: Solid clay‑based game that has translated into surprising hard‑court competitiveness, though lacking standout weapons.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Defense vs. Offense: De Minaur’s counterpunching speed will be key—he’ll retrieve everything and force Comesaña to play extra balls. Comesaña must pick his moments to attack, using depth from the baseline to prevent the Australian from dictating.
• Transition game: De Minaur thrives when he can surge forward off deep, penetrating groundstrokes. Comesaña must stay patient, redirect pace, and avoid being drawn in too early.
• Physical battle: De Minaur’s recent heavy workload could leave a slight dip in explosiveness. Comesaña’s renowned endurance gives him a chance in long rallies, potentially exploiting any drop in pace.
• Serve impact: De Minaur’s improved first‑serve placement won him crucial free points in Washington. Comesaña will need to read his serve patterns and be aggressive on second‑serve returns.

🔮 Prediction

Even with potential fatigue, Alex de Minaur’s superior movement, tactical acumen, and confidence as a fresh title‑holder make him the strong favorite. Comesaña’s resilience and surprising hard‑court form will yield competitive games, but de Minaur should close it in straight sets.

Prediction: De Minaur in 2 tight sets (e.g. 7–6, 6–4)

Alexander Zverev 🇩🇪 vs Adam Walton 🇦🇺

🔥 Alexander Zverev 🇩🇪 vs Adam Walton 🇦🇺 – ATP Toronto R2 Preview

📍 National Bank Open · Round of 32 · Outdoor Hard

🧠 Form & Context

Alexander Zverev (ATP #3)

• 🔄 Reset mode: Following a shock R1 Wimbledon exit, Zverev turned to training at the Rafa Nadal Academy under Toni Nadal to refocus mentally and tactically.
• 🎯 Masters track record: Former Toronto/Montreal champion (2019), with two Masters titles in 2024. Owns an 11–4 hard-court record in 2025, including a Munich title and Rome final.

Adam Walton (ATP #88)

• 🚀 Breakthrough swing: Reached his maiden ATP SF in Los Cabos and followed it up by defeating Benjamin Bonzi in R1 here, bouncing back after losing the first set.
• 🔥 Hard-court form: With a 28–15 record on hard in 2025, Walton is riding a breakout year—highlighted by surprise wins over Fritz and Alcaraz that show his tactical maturity.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Serve vs return: Zverev’s height and precision make his serve a formidable weapon—especially his kick serve out wide. Walton must stay low and block returns deep to challenge early.
• Baseline control: Zverev’s backhand remains world-class and can dictate off the crosscourt or change direction down the line. Walton must avoid mid-court balls and use heavy topspin to stay neutral.
• Momentum & mindset: Zverev is seeking rhythm and confidence post-Wimbledon, but Walton has built belief through recent comebacks and may shine in tense scoreboard situations.

🔮 Prediction

Zverev’s all-court game and big-match experience give him the edge. Toni Nadal’s influence could reinforce tactical discipline, especially on return games and second-shot patterns. Walton will likely push him in rallies and maybe snag a set if Zverev’s level dips—but the German should find a way through.

💡 Pick: Zverev in 2 sets (likely 7–6, 6–3)
🎯 Suggested Bet: Zverev ML + Over 20.5 Games (Walton’s serve can hold for much of Set 1)

Beatriz Haddad Maia 🇧🇷 vs Suzan Lamens 🇳🇱

🎾 Beatriz Haddad Maia 🇧🇷 vs Suzan Lamens 🇳🇱 – WTA Toronto R2 Preview

📍 National Bank Open · Round of 32 · Outdoor Hard

🧠 Form & Context

Suzan Lamens (WTA #64)

• 🚀 Breakthrough in Toronto: Claimed her first career Masters main-draw win over Polina Kudermetova (6–3, 4–6, 6–2), lifting her 2025 tour-level wins to 14—already surpassing last season’s total of 10.
• 🎾 Surface versatility: Though better known for her clay success (Osaka title, Rouen SF), her flat groundstrokes and patient counterpunching have proven adaptable to quicker courts when dialed in.

Beatriz Haddad Maia (WTA #21)

• 🔄 Mid-season revival: After starting 2025 with just 2 wins in 14 matches, she’s resurged with strong showings in Strasbourg (SF) and Bad Homburg (QF), inching back toward Top-10 form.
• 🎯 Canadian success: Finalist in Toronto 2022 and three-time quarterfinalist here. Her heavy topspin forehand and aggressive forward movement make her dangerous on North American hard courts.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Power vs consistency: Haddad Maia’s lefty spin and court-opening drives will aim to overpower Lamens’ flatter, more neutral rally style. Expect the Brazilian to pull Lamens wide and finish at the net.
• Serve pressure: Lamens averages ~60% first-serve in—respectable, but her second serve could be exposed by Haddad Maia’s aggressive return position and angles.
• Mental edge: Though Lamens won their only previous meeting (Oeiras 2021 on clay), Haddad Maia’s experience in deep runs at big events gives her a clear advantage in closing moments.

🔮 Prediction

Lamens brings grit and rhythm, but Haddad Maia’s superior power, Canadian comfort zone, and match experience make the difference. The Dutchwoman may keep sets close early, but expect Bia to pull away in crucial moments.

💡 Pick: Haddad Maia in 2 sets (e.g., 6–4, 6–4)
🎯 Suggested angle: Haddad Maia ML + Under 21.5 Games (Value Combo)

Denis Shapovalov vs Learner Tien

🎾 Denis Shapovalov 🇨🇦 vs Learner Tien 🇺🇸 – ATP Toronto R2 Preview

📍 National Bank Open · Round of 32 · Outdoor Hard

🧠 Form & Context

Denis Shapovalov (ATP #29)

• 🔄 Inconsistent resurgence: Two ATP titles in 2025 (Dallas, Los Cabos) lifted him back into the Top 30, but mental lapses still creep into key matches.
• 🏠 Home-court comfort: Loves Toronto—semifinalist in 2019 and quarterfinalist in 2021; local support often fuels his high-risk shotmaking.
• 🎾 Varied toolkit: Lefty forehands, flashy drop shots, and aggressive net play—if he can limit errors, his ceiling is top-tier.

Learner Tien (ATP #61)

• 🚀 Breakthrough campaign: Steady rise from Challenger ranks to tour-level success; 14–7 on hard courts in 2025, including R16 in Washington.
• 📈 Confidence builder: Beat Rublev in D.C. and handled Smith calmly in R1 here—thrives in structured, long rallies with tactical awareness.
• ⚠️ Stage test: Second Masters 1000 R2 after Rome debut; big crowd and flamboyant opponent could test his nerves.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Lefty chess match: Shapovalov’s looping forehand and backhand slice will attempt to open the court—Tien must absorb pace and keep returns deep to stay neutral.
• Serve dynamics: Tien lands a high first-serve rate but doesn’t get as many free points; Shapovalov’s aggressive returns and net pressure could disrupt rhythm.
• Net pressure: Expect Shapovalov to close with bold forays forward—Tien’s pass consistency will be tested under pressure.
• Mental warfare: Tien has the poise to draw errors, but Shapo has the shotmaking to end points in a blink—momentum swings could dictate the outcome.

🔮 Prediction

This should be a fun stylistic clash. Tien will make it tight with discipline and depth, but Shapovalov’s higher ceiling, flair, and crowd backing should edge him through in a nervy decider.

💡 Pick: Shapovalov in 3 sets (e.g., 6–4, 4–6, 7–5)
🎯 Suggested angle: Over 22.5 Games or Shapovalov to Win & Both Players to Win a Set (Value +160 / 2.60).

Daniil Medvedev vs Dalibor Svrčina

🎾 Daniil Medvedev 🇷🇺 vs Dalibor Svrčina 🇨🇿 – ATP Toronto R2 Preview

📍 National Bank Open · Round of 32 · Outdoor Hard

🧠 Form & Context

Daniil Medvedev (ATP #14)

• 🔄 Redemption arc: Shocked by Corentin Moutet in Washington QF—now seeking rhythm and ranking recovery.
• 🏆 North American dominance: Former champion in Toronto (2021) and Montreal finalist (2019); these courts bring out his best.
• 🎾 Mixed 2025: 11–6 on hard this season; strong wins but puzzling early Slam losses (Tien in Melbourne, Munar in Miami) suggest vulnerability when off-rhythm.

Dalibor Svrčina (ATP #120)

• 🚀 Breakthrough signs: Beat Gilles-Arnaud Bailly Blockx in R1 for his first Masters-level main-draw win.
• 🔋 Solid Challenger form: 15–6 on hard in 2025, but most wins came below ATP level; facing a Top-20 opponent for the first time this year.
• ⚠️ Learning curve: Making only his third tour-level R2 appearance; nerves and pacing may play a role under the lights here.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Serve patterns: Medvedev’s deep return stance and ability to mix spins—especially slice/kick on second serve—will pressure Svrčina’s flatter delivery.
• Baseline chess: Medvedev thrives on depth, angles, and lateral control. Svrčina must go for broke early in rallies or risk being smothered by rally length and tempo.
• Tactical pressure: Expect Medvedev to drag Svrčina wide and test his backhand repeatedly, mixing in drops and net rushes to expose movement gaps.
• Composure: Medvedev brings major experience to the table—Svrčina will need to swing freely and avoid scoreboard pressure snowballing into errors.

🔮 Prediction

Medvedev should use this match to reset rhythm and impose control. His superior returning, tactical poise, and ability to control court space make him a heavy favorite. Svrčina may earn pockets of success, but a straight-sets win is the clear expectation.

💡 Pick: Medvedev in straight sets (e.g., 6–3, 6–4)
🎯 Suggested angle: Under 21.5 Games or Medvedev -4.5 Games Handicap at near-even odds (1.85–1.95 range).

Marie Bouzková 🇨🇿 vs Diana Shnaider 🇷🇺

🎾 Marie Bouzková 🇨🇿 vs Diana Shnaider 🇷🇺 – WTA Montreal R2 Preview

📍 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Round of 32

🧠 Form & Context

Marie Bouzková (WTA #39)

• 🔥 Momentum surge: Fresh off a title win in Prague, defeating Nosková and Ann Li en route.
• ⚡ Smooth surface transition: Opened her Montreal campaign with a straight-set win over Uchijima (6–2, 7–6).
• 📈 Hard-court history: Montreal R3 last year and a career-best WTA 1000 SF in Toronto 2019.

Diana Shnaider (WTA #17)

• 🎯 Elite-level potential: Semifinalist here in 2023, beating Coco Gauff and announcing herself on the big stage.
• 📉 Flatline in 2025: QF finishes in Adelaide, Rome, and Queen’s—but no deep runs this season yet.
• 🔄 Fighting spirit: Qualified for the main draw and battled past Samsonova and Frech in three-set grinders.

📊 Key Matchup Points

• Head-to-head: 1–1 – Bouzková won their hard-ish Jiujiang 2023 clash; Shnaider returned the favor on grass in Birmingham 2024.
• Style contrast: Bouzková’s clean, flat ball-striking vs Shnaider’s spin-heavy lefty strokes and defensive retrievals.
• Mental battle: Bouzková rides the confidence wave after a title; Shnaider will lean on her prior Montreal semifinal magic.

🔮 Prediction

Bouzková's sharp form and seamless surface shift give her a slight edge. With solid depth and counterpunching, she’s poised to frustrate Shnaider in extended exchanges. Expect a tight first set before the Czech pulls away in straights.

🧩 Predicted Result: Marie Bouzková def. Diana Shnaider – 7–5, 6–4

Mirra Andreeva 🇷🇺 vs Bianca Andreescu 🇨🇦

🎾 Mirra Andreeva 🇷🇺 vs Bianca Andreescu 🇨🇦 – WTA Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Mirra Andreeva (WTA #5)

• ✨ Elite consistency: Quarterfinalist at both Roland-Garros and Wimbledon, with eight QF+ finishes at WTA 1000+ events in 2025.
• 🏆 Hard-court dominance: Won Dubai and Indian Wells back-to-back, cementing her surface prowess.
• 🔝 Teen sensation: At just 18 years old, she's a top-5 staple chasing her first deep run in Canada.

Bianca Andreescu (WTA #187)

• 💪 Gritty return: Beat Krejčíková 6–3, 6–4 in R1 despite twisting her ankle on match point.
• ⏱ Rust factor: Missed early 2025 due to injury; best results since return include R4 in Rome and a QF in Rosmalen.
• 🏠 Hometown hero: 2019 Toronto champion; backed by passionate home fans and deep experience on this court.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Style battle: Andreeva’s relentless depth and control vs Andreescu’s flair, variety, and disruptive tactics.
• Serve stakes: Andreeva’s solid first serve generates free points; Andreescu must attack 2nd serves and extend rallies.
• Movement watch: Andreeva is match-fit and quick; Andreescu’s ankle may limit defense—look for shorter rallies.
• Intangibles: Andreeva plays with fearless confidence; Andreescu has the crowd and big-match history on her side.

🔮 Prediction

Andreeva’s firepower and rhythm on hard courts should prove too steady for Andreescu, who may still be battling physical limitations. Expect tight early games, but the teenager’s consistency and control should see her through.

🧩 Prediction: Mirra Andreeva def. Bianca Andreescu – 7–5, 6–3

Musetti 🇮🇹 vs Duckworth 🇦🇺

🎾 Lorenzo Musetti 🇮🇹 vs James Duckworth 🇦🇺 – ATP Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Lorenzo Musetti (ATP #10)

• ⬇️ Pressure building: First-round Wimbledon exit and an R2 loss to Norrie in Washington have dropped him from #6 to #10.
• 🏆 Clay-court brilliance: Four consecutive SF+ results on clay, including Roland-Garros, but remains inconsistent on hard (6–5 in 2025).
• 🎯 Critical turning point: A deep run here is essential to justify his top-10 ranking outside of clay dominance.

James Duckworth (ATP #106)

• 🚀 Form revival: Qualified and reached QF in Los Cabos, followed by a Toronto R1 win over Shang—his best spell in months.
• 🌍 Masters experience: Made R16 in Toronto 2021, defeating Fritz and Sinner; proven he can punch above weight on this stage.
• ⚡ Nothing to lose: 0–12 against top-10 players, but this could be his best chance if Musetti continues to struggle on hard courts.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Stylistic clash: Musetti’s flair and one-hander vs Duckworth’s flat hitting—Duckworth must strike early to avoid being drawn into long rallies.
• Serve stakes: Musetti’s first-serve percentage will be key. Duckworth needs to protect his own serve and go for early strikes on return.
• Rally dynamics: Long exchanges favor Musetti’s craft; Duckworth must take initiative and shorten points.
• Mindset battle: Musetti faces ranking pressure and high expectations; Duckworth comes in relaxed and riding good form.

🔮 Prediction

Musetti’s creativity, control, and superior movement should outmaneuver Duckworth across baseline exchanges. The Aussie may threaten with some aggressive return games, but Musetti’s tactical edge should shine through.

🧩 Prediction: Lorenzo Musetti def. James Duckworth – 6–4, 6–3

Moutet 🇫🇷 vs Brooksby 🇺🇸

🎾 Corentin Moutet 🇫🇷 vs Jenson Brooksby 🇺🇸 – ATP Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Corentin Moutet (ATP #46)

• 🚀 Career-high form: Finalist in Mallorca (grass) and semifinalist in Washington last week—arguably the best spell of his career.
• ⚖️ Question marks at Masters level: Despite all-court talent, has lost in the first round in 12 of 19 previous Masters 1000 main draws.
• 🎾 2025 hard-court record: 10–6, playing aggressively and with confidence after his deep Washington run.

Jenson Brooksby (ATP #102)

• 🔄 On the comeback trail: Returned from a long injury layoff and surged from unranked in January to inside the top 105.
• ⚠️ Recent stutter: Lost in R1 of Washington to Nishioka—his fourth loss to a lefty this year, suggesting a possible stylistic vulnerability.
• 🏠 Surface specialist: Has built his best results on North American hard courts, where his unique style and tempo control thrive.

🔍 Match Breakdown

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Griekspoor 🇳🇱 vs Etcheverry 🇦🇷

🎾 Tallon Griekspoor 🇳🇱 vs Tomas Martin Etcheverry 🇦🇷 – ATP Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Tallon Griekspoor (ATP #31)

• 🔥 Breakthrough season: Won the Mallorca title and reached Indian Wells QF (def. Zverev)—his first career Masters 1000 quarterfinal.
• ⚠️ Form wobble: Early exits at Wimbledon and Bastad (QF loss after leading); searching for rhythm ahead of US Open swing.
• 🎾 Hard-court solid: 11–6 record in 2025, looking to build on his North American summer.

Tomas Martin Etcheverry (ATP #60)

• 📉 Slippery slope: A 19–25 season derailed by inconsistency and injuries; slipped outside the top 50.
• 🔄 Momentum builder: Snapped five-match losing streak by outlasting Herbert in R1 (3–6, 6–4, 7–5); looking for his first-ever back-to-back Masters wins.
• 🎯 Surface mismatch: Primarily a clay-court player (5–6 on hard in 2025); will need adaptation to maintain momentum.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Game styles: Griekspoor brings flat, aggressive hitting and a reliable first serve; Etcheverry uses topspin-heavy patterns and builds rallies from the back.
• Serve/return dynamics: Griekspoor’s hold percentage is key; Etcheverry needs to use depth and angle to disrupt his timing on return games.
• Rally patterns: Shorter points favor Griekspoor; Etcheverry must drag rallies out and apply tactical pressure on second serves.
• Mental state: Griekspoor plays with top-30 confidence and recent Masters pedigree; Etcheverry carries the underdog mindset with nothing to lose.

🔮 Prediction

Tallon Griekspoor’s blend of power, surface comfort, and recent big-match experience should see him through. Etcheverry will test him with deeper rallies and court craft, but lacks the hard-court consistency

Alexei Popyrin 🇦🇺 vs Nicolas Arseneault 🇨🇦

🎾 Alexei Popyrin 🇦🇺 vs Nicolas Arseneault 🇨🇦 – ATP Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Alexei Popyrin (ATP #26)

• 📉 Downward trend: 13–18 overall record in 2025, including nine first-round exits in 16 events.
• ⚠️ Defending champ pressure: Holds 1,000 points from his stunning 2024 title run here (def. Shelton, Dimitrov, Rublev), plus US Open R4 points looming.
• ⚖️ Big-stage credentials: Masters champion and Slam upset-maker, with the firepower to dominate when on-song.

Nicolas Arseneault (ATP #638)

• 🚀 Wildcard dream: Earned first Masters main-draw win by beating Royer 6–3, 7–6 as a last-minute sub.
• 🌱 Teen spirit: Just 18, barely any ATP experience, but showcased composure and shot tolerance in R1.
• 💥 Confidence surge: Already climbed 100+ live ranking spots and plays with nothing to lose in front of home fans.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Style clash: Popyrin’s heavy first serve and flat forehand seek quick control; Arseneault uses court coverage and return angles to disrupt rhythm.
• Return dynamics: If Arseneault reads Popyrin’s serve early, especially second serves, the Canadian could apply pressure with bold returns.
• Mentality matchup: Popyrin is under enormous ranking pressure; Arseneault swings freely with crowd backing and zero expectations.
• Endurance & composure: Popyrin has played long best-of-three tour matches consistently. Arseneault must manage nerves and physical dips if pushed to a tiebreak or deep second set.

🔮 Prediction

Alexei Popyrin should survive the scare. His bigger weapons, Masters experience, and urgency from defending his title should get him across the line—though expect a tight affair, especially if Arseneault serves well and rides the home-crowd momentum.

🧩 Prediction: Alexei Popyrin def. Nicolas Arseneault – 7–6, 6–4

Anna Kalinskaya 🇷🇺 vs Ann Li 🇺🇸

🎾 Anna Kalinskaya 🇷🇺 vs Ann Li 🇺🇸 – WTA Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Anna Kalinskaya (WTA #31)

• 🚀 Washington revival: Reached the D.C. final last week with dominant wins over Raducanu, Tauson, and Linette before falling to Fernandez (6–1, 6–2).
• 📉 Up-and-down season: Slipped from #14 to #48 in the rankings by July, with only sporadic deep runs (Doha QF, Charleston QF).
• 🎾 Hard-court rebound: Just 5–7 on hard courts before D.C., but her recent form indicates a return to her aggressive baseline best.

Ann Li (WTA #59)

• ⏳ Gradual rebuild: Posted a QF run in Prague after a modest grass swing (2–3), continuing her quiet resurgence.
• 🎯 Hard-working grinder: Made three W100 finals last year; looking to crack the WTA top 50 again in 2025.
• 💥 H2H edge: Leads 1–0 after Kalinskaya retired in the Singapore SF, giving her a small psychological advantage.

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Style clash: Kalinskaya’s game revolves around flat, early-strike hitting and aggressive return positions; Li’s court coverage and counterpunching could test that pace.
• Serve pressure: Li’s compact delivery will need to stay consistent under Kalinskaya’s a

Kostyuk 🇺🇦 vs Vondroušová 🇨🇿

🎾 Marta Kostyuk 🇺🇦 vs Markéta Vondroušová 🇨🇿 – WTA Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Marta Kostyuk (WTA #28)

• ⚠️ Six-match skid: Has not won a match since May—her last victory came in the Rome R16.
• 🔄 Bye beneficiary: Skipped R1, now chasing her third career win in Montreal (best: R3 in 2024).
• 🎾 Hard-court 2025 record: 10–9, with early-season success tapering off post-Madrid.

Markéta Vondroušová (WTA #63)

• 💪 Berlin bounce: Claimed the title in June with wins over Keys and Sabalenka—signaling a resurgence.
• 🔄 Comeback mode: Returned from injury and has posted a solid 7–4 record vs top-30 players this year.
• 🎾 Hard-court 2025 record: 5–4, including a solid R1 win over Eala (3–6, 6–1, 6–2).

🔍 Match Breakdown

• Baseline vs variety: Kostyuk will look to strike early with flat power; Vondroušová thrives by using spin, angles, and drop shots to stretch the court.
• Service dynamics: Kostyuk must protect her serve and attack second serves. Vondroušová’s lefty delivery and kick serve make returns awkward and keep points neutral.
• Endurance test: Longer rallies favor Vondroušová’s superior footwork and patience; Kostyuk needs quick-strike winners to avoid getting drawn into grinding exchanges.
• Mental edge: Vondroušová enters with confidence from her Berlin title and comeback win in R1, while Kostyuk may feel pressure to snap her losing streak.

🔮 Prediction

Markéta Vondroušová’s tactical variety and ability to reset rallies make her the clear favorite. Kostyuk could steal a set with explosive serving and baseline firepower, but her current slump and the Czech’s lefty disruptiveness suggest Vondroušová controls the key exchanges.

🧩 Pick: Markéta Vondroušová def. Marta Kostyuk – 2 sets (e.g. 6–4, 7–5)

Leylah Fernandez 🇨🇦 vs Maya Joint 🇦🇺

🎾 Leylah Fernandez 🇨🇦 vs Maya Joint 🇦🇺 – WTA Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Leylah Fernandez (WTA #24)

• 🔥 D.C. Champion: Captured her first title on U.S. soil last week, defeating Pegula and Rybakina en route to the Washington crown.
• 📈 Momentum surge: Prior to D.C., only two QFs in 2025 (Abu Dhabi, Nottingham)—now enters Montreal brimming with confidence.
• 🧠 Recent H2H: Beat Joint in straight sets (6–3, 6–3) in Washington just eight days ago—won 100% of service games and 78% behind first serve.
• 🏠 Home crowd factor: A local favorite who made R16 here in 2023. Expect loud support and extra fire.

Maya Joint (WTA #45)

• 🚀 Breakout season: Rabat and Eastbourne titles, Hobart SF, and a rise from outside the top 100 into the top 40.
• ⚠️ Brutal openers: Lost to Fernandez and Samsonova in recent R1 exits, both in straight sets.
• 👀 Rapid development: Just 19 and already winning on clay, grass, and hard. First Montreal main draw.
• 📉 Fatigue concern: Has played 56 matches in 2025; last tour-level win came over Pavlyuchenkova over a month ago.

🔍 Match Breakdown

Rematch tension: This is a tactical do-over of their Washington duel. Fernandez used elite footwork and angles to dismantle Joint’s power baseline game.

Tactical flow: Joint looks to end points early with flat forehands, but Fernandez thrives in rallies—returning deep and absorbing pace. Expect Leylah to redirect with precision.

Mental & physical edge: Fernandez rides the high of a title win but must avoid emotional fatigue. Home-court adrenaline may lift her again, especially if the crowd gets involved.

What Joint needs: A fast start, early break chances, and high first-serve accuracy. If she forces Fernandez into defense early, she could flip the script.

🔮 Prediction

Leylah Fernandez holds a clear tactical edge, fresh off beating Joint just a week ago. The quick turnaround and home-court pressure make it tricky, but her movement and rally tolerance should again prove decisive.

🧩 Pick: Leylah Fernandez def. Maya Joint – 2 sets (e.g. 7–5, 6–4)

Nosková 🇨🇿 vs Cristian 🇷🇴

🎾 Linda Nosková 🇨🇿 vs Jaqueline Cristian 🇷🇴 – WTA Montreal R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Linda Nosková (WTA #23)

• 🔄 Red-hot streak: 12 wins in her last 4 events, including a Wimbledon R16 run and finalist showing at Strela Prague.
• 🎯 Breakthrough moment: On the verge of cracking the top 20; making her Montreal main-draw debut riding strong momentum.
• 💪 Confident transition: Has translated clay and grass success into rhythm on hard courts—well-positioned for a deep run.

Jaqueline Cristian (WTA #52)

• 🏆 Career-best season: Captured the 125K Puerto Vallarta title and reached the Rabat final—first time breaking into top 50.
• 🔄 Versatile performer: Notable third rounds at the Australian Open and Indian Wells; owns a 13–6 hard-court record in 2025.
• 🚀 Fighter’s mindset: Came from a set down to beat Marina Stakusic in R1—shows grit and mental toughness under pressure.

🔍 Match Breakdown

Power vs. Craft: Nosková’s explosive baseline hitting and aggressive return game will push Cristian into defensive territory. Cristian will counter with her varied backhand slices, drop shots, and court craft to disrupt rhythm.

Serve tactics: Expect Nosková to use her height to deliver strong kick serves—especially on second serve—to pin Cristian deep. Cristian must stay aggressive on return games and pounce when Nosková’s first-serve percentage dips.

Rally depth: Cristian’s flatter drives can hurt Nosková if timed well, but Nosková’s heavier strokes and superior shot tolerance favor her in baseline exchanges.

Momentum & pressure: Nosková’s recent form gives her an edge in confidence. Cristian’s ability to dig deep in long matches may keep her close, but if Nosková establishes early leads, Cristian will need to chase from behind.

🔮 Prediction

Linda Nosková is playing the best tennis of her young career and looks increasingly comfortable across all surfaces. Cristian has the tools to make this a battle, but the Czech’s pace and shotmaking should prevail in key moments.

🧩 Pick: Linda Nosková def. Jaqueline Cristian – 2 sets (e.g. 6–4, 6–4)

Miomir Kecmanovic 🇷🇸 vs Alexandre Muller 🇫🇷

🎾 Miomir Kecmanovic 🇷🇸 vs Alexandre Muller 🇫🇷 – ATP Toronto R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Miomir Kecmanovic (ATP #50)

• 🔄 Erratic but resilient: Pushed to five sets by Svajda in DC, then bounced back to defeat Halys in Toronto R1 after dropping the first set.
• 🏆 Hard-court strength: 14–8 on the surface this year, including a title run in Delray Beach—his first ATP trophy since 2020.
• 🚀 Masters momentum: A win here would match his best Canadian Open result and mark back-to-back Masters wins for the first time since Rome 2024.

Alexandre Muller (ATP #40)

• 📉 Out-of-form stretch: Lost six of his last seven matches, though early-year results (Hong Kong title, Rio final) buoyed his ranking.
• 🎾 Fresh start: Enters off a first-round bye—his maiden Masters 1000 appearance—so he’s rested but lacking match rhythm.
• 📈 Ranking opportunity: With few points to defend, a win would help solidify his top-40 standing and revive momentum post-Wimbledon.

🔍 Match Breakdown

Baseline chess match: Kecmanovic favors flat, deep strikes to control exchanges, while Muller leans on angles and drop shots to pull opponents off-balance. Expect frequent resets from mid-court positions.

Serving dynamics: Kecmanovic’s stronger first serve offers more free points; Muller’s best hope lies in neutralizing with early returns and testing the Serb’s defense in longer rallies.

Pressure performance: Muller has shown cracks in tight spots during his recent slump. Kecmanovic will look to capitalize on short balls and attack second serves to avoid giving Muller rhythm.

Fitness edge: Muller is fresher due to the bye, but Kecmanovic has the benefit of a competitive R1 match to sharpen timing and build confidence.

🔮 Prediction

Kecmanovic enters with better recent form and the confidence of a title earlier this season. His power game and match rhythm should prove too steady for Muller, who’s still searching for consistency. Expect a controlled display from Kecmanovic as he builds momentum in Toronto.

🧩 Pick: Miomir Kecmanovic def. Alexandre Muller – 2 sets (e.g. 6–4, 6–3)

Khachanov 🇷🇺 vs Ficovich 🇦🇷

🎾 Karen Khachanov 🇷🇺 vs Juan Pablo Ficovich 🇦🇷 – ATP Toronto R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Karen Khachanov (ATP #16)

• 🔄 Consistent force: A quiet 24–16 record in 2025 without major dips—solid if unspectacular form.
• 🎯 Masters track record: Semifinalist twice at the Canadian Masters—Toronto 2018 and Montreal 2019.
• ⚔️ Early exits: Often faces top-20 opposition in R2/R3—this is a golden chance to progress deeper.

Juan Pablo Ficovich (ATP #140)

• 🚀 Breakthrough moment: Qualified and won his first-ever Masters main draw match (vs Fearnley).
• 🌎 Clay-to-hard conversion: More known for clay prowess, but an 8–4 hard record in 2025 defies that stereotype.
• 📈 Momentum: Quarterfinal in Los Cabos shows confidence, but lacks experience at this level.

🔍 Match Breakdown

Power vs. Craft: Khachanov will look to dominate from the baseline with heavy forehands and a big first serve. Ficovich’s more clay-oriented rhythm game may struggle to absorb Khachanov’s pace on hard court.

Serve & Return: Khachanov holds a significant edge on serve—expect free points and offensive return games against Ficovich’s second delivery. Ficovich must counter with variety and strategic redirection to avoid getting bullied in rallies.

Experience differential: Khachanov has been here before and knows how to close out early rounds. Ficovich, while confident, enters uncharted waters against a top-20 opponent in a Masters setting.

🔮 Prediction

This is a stylistic mismatch. Khachanov’s explosive game, superior return pressure, and experience at this level make him the heavy favorite. Ficovich may hang early, but expect Khachanov to pull away with controlled aggression and relentless depth.

🧩 Pick: Karen Khachanov def. Juan Pablo Ficovich – 2 sets (e.g. 6–4, 6–2)

Michelsen 🇺🇸 vs Barrios Vera 🇨🇱

🎾 Alex Michelsen 🇺🇸 vs Tomas Barrios Vera 🇨🇱 – ATP Toronto R2 Preview

📅 National Bank Open · Outdoor Hard · Wednesday, July 31

🧠 Form & Context

Alex Michelsen (ATP #34)

• 🇺🇸 Rising star: Turned 21 in August, with a 10–8 record on hard courts in 2025.
• 🔼 Breakout season: Semifinals in Mallorca and quarterfinals in Halle fueled his rise inside the top 40.
• 📉 Mixed US Open prep: Lost to Dan Evans in straight sets in Washington, but no ranking pressure in Toronto.
• 🎯 Next step: Seeking his first back-to-back Masters main-draw wins to secure a stable top-30 spot.

Tomas Barrios Vera (ATP #143)

• 🇨🇱 Career milestone: Earned his first Masters main-draw win by defeating Gael Monfils in R1.
• 🛠 Challenger stalwart: Longtime fixture on the Challenger Tour; recent ATP win could spark confidence.
• 🎾 Surface variance: 3–2 on hard in 2025 vs 25–16 on clay—still adjusting to faster conditions.

🔍 Match Breakdown

Power vs. Control: Michelsen’s explosive serve and aggressive forehand will aim to dictate; Barrios Vera will need to absorb pace and redirect with depth and angles.

Momentum check: Barrios Vera comes in fresh from his biggest win but faces a much more polished and consistent opponent in Michelsen, who’s been tested at the highest level more frequently.

Key Patterns: Michelsen will look to dominate short points with serve+1 combos, while Barrios Vera must force extended rallies to push the American off balance and create chances off second serve returns.

Endurance edge: Both are fit, but Michelsen’s recent grass and hard-court experience at ATP-level gives him an edge in best-of-three consistency.

🔮 Prediction

While Barrios Vera’s upset over Monfils was impressive, Michelsen’s top-tier experience and superior serve-game should set the tone. Expect early pressure, confident baseline play, and a composed performance from the American.

🧩 Pick: Alex Michelsen def. Tomas Barrios Vera – 2 sets (e.g. 6–4, 6–3)