**Day 2 of the Australian Open is shaping up to be a thrilling showcase of talent, with most of the first-round matches concluding and numerous intriguing clashes awaiting. But here's where it gets controversial... With 28 men's singles encounters lined up, predicting the outcomes becomes a challenging yet exciting task. Our team of tennis analysts at LastWordOnTennis has thoughtfully examined each match, splitting their predictions across seven detailed articles. This particular piece focuses on the upcoming showdown between Alexei Popyrin and Alexandre Muller, along with other notable battles featuring players like Marin Cilic, Reilly Opelka, and Denis Shapovalov, among others. Besides, insights come from seasoned experts Yesh Ginsburg, Zain Mustafa, and Ilemona Onekutu. So, who do you think will emerge victorious?
Alexei Popyrin vs. Alexandre Muller
Yesh:
I've been expecting Popyrin to deliver that breakthrough performance I believe he's fully capable of. With his natural talent, he should be making deep runs in hard-court Grand Slams. It hasn't quite materialized yet, and perhaps it won't, but this match might be the perfect opportunity for him to find his rhythm with his powerful groundstrokes.
Prediction: Popyrin wins in three sets.
Zain:
Muller is a formidable opponent because of his strong skill set and consistency. However, Popyrin has had a somewhat inconsistent recent run, yet playing on his home soil with vocal support could give him the edge needed to edge out a difficult five-setter.
Prediction: Popyrin wins in five sets.
Ilemona:
Popyrin’s serve combined with his aggressive forehand is well-suited to this surface. Muller might find it hard to neutralize that power consistently. Expect shorter points to favor Popyrin here.
Prediction: Popyrin wins in three sets.
Marin Cilic vs. Daniel Altmaier
Yesh:
Cilic may no longer be at his peak level from his US Open-winning days over a decade ago, but he still flashes moments of brilliance and possesses the power and variety to challenge anyone. Still, it’s been a while since he’s put together a fully consistent run.
Prediction: Cilic wins in four sets.
Zain:
Altmaier’s strong single-handed backhand can trouble players who lack sharp court coverage — a potential vulnerability for Cilic at his current age. Nevertheless, Cilic’s shot-for-shot advantages should give him the upper hand in this matchup.
Prediction: Cilic wins in four sets.
Ilemona:
Altmaier’s defensive skills will be tested by Cilic’s ability to finish points from both wings. If Cilic’s serve is reliable, he should dominate most sets.
Prediction: Cilic wins in five sets.
Reilly Opelka vs. Nicolai Budkov Kjaer
Yesh:
While Budkov Kjaer has a promising future ahead, he currently lacks the experience to handle Opelka’s explosive serve. As long as Opelka maintains his serving precision, he should advance comfortably.
Prediction: Opelka wins in three sets.
Zain:
Despite solid performances by Budkov Kjaer at the Next Gen ATP Finals and during qualifying, Opelka’s greatest weapon — his serve — remains a major equalizer. Expect this match to feature multiple tiebreaks, with Opelka’s experience ultimately making the difference.
Prediction: Opelka wins in five sets.
Ilemona:
Opelka’s serve dramatically influences the course of matches on hard courts, especially early in the tournament. Breaking his serve will be a significant challenge for Kjaer.
Prediction: Opelka wins in three sets.
Denis Shapovalov vs. Yunchaokete Bu
Yesh:
Like many of his recent performances, this match hinges on Shapovalov’s ability to manage his power and maintain good rhythm. If he does so, he’s capable of beating almost anyone. But let’s be honest — that’s not always the case. Bu is a steady player, and an upset isn’t out of the realm of possibility.
Prediction: Bu wins in four sets.
Zain:
Shapovalov often begins matches with an aggressive flair that leaves opponents chasing shadows. Bu will have opportunities to be competitive, but ultimately, Shapovalov’s consistency and shot-making should see him winning at least three sets.
Prediction: Shapovalov wins in four sets.
Ilemona:
Though Bu hits the ball cleanly, Shapovalov’s attacking style and his willingness to target second serves will create momentum swings. If he minimizes errors, he has a strong chance to come through.
Prediction: Shapovalov wins in three sets.
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke - Imagn Images
