Metz R2 previews and predictions: Dimitrov vs. Norrie, Michelsen vs. Gasquet

The remaining quarterfinal spots in Metz will be handed out on Wednesday, when Grigor Dimitrov begins his week against Cameron Norrie. Alex Michelsen and Richard Gasquet are also part of the second-round schedule.

(3) Grigor Dimitrov vs. Cameron Norrie

It’s hard to know what exactly Dimitrov is doing at the Moselle Open. It has been a long and most successful season for the 33-year-old Bulgarian, who wore down physically at the end of several recent tournaments. Dimitrov was eliminated from Nitto ATP Finals contention at last week’s Paris Masters, so he has basically nothing to gain from participating at this 250 tournament.

Whatever the case, the world No. 10 will be facing Norrie or the fourth time in his career during second-round action on Wednesday. Norrie leads the head-to-head series 2-1, although Dimitrov won their most recent meeting 6-7(2), 6-1, 6-4 on the grass courts of Queen’s Club in 2022. The 2024 campaign has been a bit of a struggle for Norrie, but he is well rested and already has a win under his belt in Metz (3-6, 6-4, 6-3 over Roberto Carballes Baena). The 57th-ranked Brit should be able to take advantage of a disinterested opponent).

Pick: Norrie in 3

(8) Alex Michelsen vs. (WC) Richard Gasquet

Gasquet is making his final appearance in front of the home crowd in Metz, as he will retire next spring at Roland Garros. The 38-year-old Frenchman’s week began in dramatic fashion on Monday, when he outlasted Thiago Monteiro 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(6). It was a rare victory for Gasquet, who is a hopeless 4-13 on the main tour in 2024.

Up next for the world No. 133 is a much tougher test–especially on an indoor hard court–against Michelsen. The 44th-ranked American is at the opposite end of the career spectrum at 20 years old and his rise has been consistent over the past two seasons. Michelsen picked up his 30th ATP-level match win of the year on Monday by destroying Harold Mayot 6-3, 6-1. Much to the chagrin of the fans, the eighth seed can be expected to make similarly quick work of Gasquet.

Pick: Michelsen in 2