It’s a clash of two Wimbledon semifinalists in the first round in Den Bosch with Hubert Hurkacz (2021 Wimbledon SF) taking on Roberto Bautista Agut (2019). After six meetings between the two, their head-to-head is currently tied at 3-3. Who will break the deadlock at ATP Den Bosch?
ATP Den Bosch Day 2 Predictions
Mackenzie McDonald vs Mattia Bellucci
Head-to-head: Bellucci 1-0
Mattia Bellucci could use a run right now after the clay season didn’t really go that well. Luckily for him, he feels much more natural on grass with his lefty serve and forehand slices being so unpleasant to face. But Mackenzie McDonald knows his way around a grass-court, too, and will make himself a tricky opponent with his flat-hitting aggression. Bellucci’s a bit more versatile, but will need to execute his game at a high standard to prevail.
Prediction: Bellucci in 2
Rinky Hijikata vs Daniel Evans
Head-to-head: Evans 1-0
Daniel Evans is clearly not going to return to his peak form, but maybe grass can give him some sort of a boost. The qualifying campaign was quite promising, especially as on this surface he wasn’t just limited to slice grinding like on clay. He was also able to step in and dictate a bit more, using his excellent touch and net skills. Rinky Hijikata usually performs well at this event, but with not overwhelming weaponry, he could be a doable opponent for Evans.
Prediction: Evans in 3
Reilly Opelka vs Jesper de Jong
Head-to-head: First meeting
Reilly Opelka wasn’t at his best in the final qualifying round against Mark Lajal, eventually requiring a lucky loser spot to join the main draw. With the American’s giant body, it’s tough to bend the knees low enough with all the balls that skid on this surface. But of course, the serve is still a big factor, and Opelka might be able to play much better on Tuesday. He has a good opportunity to get through a round here as Jesper de Jong is not exactly a grass-court specialist.
Prediction: Opelka in 2
Hubert Hurkacz vs Roberto Bautista Agut
Head-to-head: 3-3
This has been an interesting rivalry as Roberto Bautista Agut took the first three meetings with Hubert Hurkacz, firing back over the last two years. The Spaniard won this title back in 2014 and made Wimbledon semifinals six years ago, so it’s possible that getting back on the grass will help him restore some confidence. Hurkacz will be the favorite here, but an experienced veteran with a grass court pedigree like Bautista Agut is not an easy opponent for a first match on the surface.
Prediction: Hurkacz in 3
Main Photo Credit: Peter van den Berg – USA TODAY Sports