The second day of play at the Paris Olympics is action-packed with Aussie Alex de Minaur battling big-serving German Jan-Lennard Struff and popular French upstart Arthur Fils taking on Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi.
(5) Alex de Minaur vs. Jan-Lennard Struff
The French crowd at Roland Garros is getting a second helping of Alex de Minaur vs. Jan-Lennard Struff in a couple months. The two men played in the third round of the French Open at this year’s edition. And while Struff has had a great season on the dirt, he is facing the very best version of De Minaur. The Aussie has been rock-solid in the big moments of the year. He withdrew from Wimbledon prior to his quarterfinal match against Novak Djokovic with a hip injury but claims to be recovered in time for Paris 2024.
Of his fitness, the Aussie said, “To finally be able to represent Australia in the Olympics is a dream come true. I’m very passionate when I play for my country and wear the green and gold…. I’m extremely excited to lace up for Paris 2024.”
De Minaur holds a 4-2 edge over Struff, including their most recent encounter at Roland Garros. The German is ranked 34th in the world. He is 14-5 on the dirt this year; against someone vulnerable he would be a tough first opponent. And he might still push De Minaur to 3, but a motivated and healthy De Minaur isn’t likely to suffer an upset.
Cheryl pick: De Minaur in 3
Ricky pick: De Minaur in 3
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Arthur Fils vs. Matteo Arnaldi
It will be another French Open replay on Sunday when Arthur Fils takes on Matteo Arnaldi. The two men have played on three other occasions (twice this year), including in the first round of Roland Garros in May. So far, it hasn’t been good news for FIls, who is a disappointing 0-3 against the 23-year-old. Fils did take a set in Paris, but it was an otherwise tame performance from the young French player.
Fils will undoubtedly have more crowd support than Arnaldi and he comes into the Olympics off the biggest title of his career at the 500 event in Hamburg. He is a good clay-courter, and recent wins over Holger Rune and Alexander Zverev will give him plenty of confidence for this week. Still, it’s hard to ignore three consecutive losses to Arnaldi. The good news for Fils is that Arnaldi is going through a bit of a rough patch, with first-round losses at both Wimbledon and Hamburg.
Given form and especially Fils’ recent success in Hamburg, look for the youngster to get his first-ever win over his Italian opponent.
Cheryl pick: Fils in 3
Ricky pick: Fils in 3
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