Novak Djokovic (SRB) vs Rafael Nadal (ESP)
When: 2nd match on Philippe-Chatrier
Has anyone ever heard of these guys? Not sure what they’ve done to deserve this feature. With a combined total of 46 Grand Slam titles, both players aren’t performing at the level we’re accustomed to. For the first time in years, Novak Djokovic is clearly not a top 2 player, while Rafael Nadal has had to be selective about his matches this year. However, both players will likely want to bring their best tennis tomorrow, not just for themselves but because this could possibly be their last meeting. Tennis deserves one more epic Rafa vs. Novak battle.
Despite his recent struggles, Rafa has had some notable performances. He lost to Borges in straight sets in the final of Bastad two weeks ago, which is uncharacteristic for him. However, he also won a four-hour best-of-three match against Navone, a top clay court player this year. Rafa removed the tape from his leg today against Fucs and should be ready to battle Novak. Rafa comes into this match more battle-tested, having played Fucs today, whereas Novak faced unranked Australian Matthew Ebden and won 6-0, 6-1. Novak is the favorite based on this year’s results and his consistency in staying healthy. You could see Rafa’s disappointment when the draw was revealed. But don’t ever count Rafa out at Roland Garros. The crowd will back him tomorrow, and he hopes to bring back vintage Rafa tennis and stay on the offense enough to challenge Novak.
Svitolina (UKR) vs Pegula (USA)
When: 4th match on Philippe-Chatrier
On a day featuring all 16 women’s singles matches, this is one of the tougher early-round matches. Both players are big names and have had successful careers, each reaching a career-high ranking of number 3. Currently, Pegula is ranked number 6, and Svitolina is at number 31. Both players perform well on all surfaces, but Svitolina is slightly more comfortable on clay. Both prefer first-strike tennis but can rely on their movement if needed, with Svitolina having a slight edge.
Svitolina is coming off a quarterfinal run at Wimbledon and has won 31 career titles, succeeding in all Grand Slams. She has good memories at Roland Garros, having won the junior title in 2010, and is married to French star Gael Monfils, so the crowd will support her. Svitolina has been donating her prize money to Ukraine, showing her fighting spirit and positive attitude on court.
Pegula has had a roller-coaster year, unexpectedly splitting with longtime coach David Witt and dealing with an injury. She missed Roland Garros but had success in her Wimbledon warm-up tournaments, though she lost in the second round to Wang. This might be her biggest match of the year, but she looked strong in doubles on Saturday. This should be a close contest, likely going to three sets.
Prediction: 3 sets
Ram/Krajicek (USA) vs Popyrin/De Minaur (AUS)
When: 4th match on Simone-Mathieu
Indianapolis’ own Rajeev Ram is partnering with former Texas A&M standout Austin Krajicek. This duo of former world number 1 doubles players has a good chance of winning a gold medal. De Minaur pulled out of singles today, so he might be replaced by an alternate. Regardless, the Americans are heavy favorites. If De Minaur plays, he and Popyrin have a poor track record, 0-2 together, losing both matches earlier this year on clay.
Popyrin, a big server, and De Minaur, a good returner, complement each other well but lack strong net skills, which is where the Americans excel. Ram and Krajicek, a left-handed and right-handed duo, complement each other well and have gained experience playing together in Davis Cup and other ATP events.
Prediction: Ram/Krajicek (USA)
Danielle Collins (USA) vs Caroline Wozniacki (DEN)
When: 3rd match on Court 14
Caroline Wozniacki was fortunate to escape the first round, coming back from a set down and 5-4 against Mayer Sherif to win 9 of the last 10 games. Danielle Collins, on the other hand, breezed through her first-round match before her opponent, Laura Siegemund, withdrew.
This matchup features Wozniacki, fresh out of retirement, against Collins, who plans to retire at the end of the year. Wozniacki has tried to add pace to her shots and be more aggressive since returning to the tour, as she can no longer rely solely on her legs and consistency. Collins, known for her aggressive play, will likely dominate if Wozniacki doesn’t serve well. Collins likes having control of the match and will be tough to beat unless she has an off day.
Prediction: Danielle Collins (USA)
Ugo Humbert (FRA) vs Francisco Cerundolo (ARG)
When: 2nd match on Simone-Mathieu
Ugo Humbert is known for dramatic matches, often going to five sets in Grand Slams. The flat-hitting left-hander will play in front of his home crowd, which he will try to use to his advantage. Cerundolo, whose favorite surface is clay, recently won a title on clay and will look to extend points and draw errors from Humbert. Humbert plays more through the court rather than relying on typical lefty spin and angles, making his serve difficult to return. Cerundolo is the steadier player, while Humbert will look to be aggressive. With the home crowd behind him, Humbert will be tough to beat, but expect a close match.
Prediction: 3 sets
Andreeva/Medvedev (RUS) vs Errani/Vavassori (ITA)
When: 5th match on Suzanne-Lenglen
The Olympics feature some of the top players in mixed doubles, providing a unique and fun environment. In this case, we have Andreeva, known for her funny personality, and Medvedev, known for his quirky and emotional on-court antics. Despite their lightheartedness, they are serious competitors. Andreeva has had recent doubles success and will help singles specialist Medvedev adapt to doubles. Their strong serves will be an advantage.
Their opponents, Errani and Vavassori, are better doubles players than singles players, providing a good contrast in styles. The Italians’ experience in doubles will make this an interesting match, but the Russians’ combined talent and determination should see them through.
Prediction: Andreeva/Medvedev (RUS)
