(1) Novak Djokovic vs. Sam Querrey: While this may be a lopsided matchup on paper, you never really know for sure. Querrey has defeated Djokovic before, albeit once in eight career tries (2012 Paris Masters). The American also took a set off the current world No. 1 last year in Davis Cup in a match during which Djokovic sustained a sprained ankle. Based on how this event has progressed so far, Americans need a whole lot of luck–and won’t get it. Djokovic in 3.
(9) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga vs. Pablo Carreno Busta: If you’re a fan of the Grandstand, you have to be loving week one of the U.S. Open. Tsonga and Gael Monfils, two of the undisputed most exciting players in the sport, will have played a combined all five of their matches on the Grandstand when this one ends on Saturday. So far, neither Frenchman has disappointed. Tsonga in 3.
Andrey Kuznetsov vs. (8) Andy Murray: Murray vs. Fernando Verdasco would have been more prestigious, perhaps even snagging the night spot in Ashe. Still, don’t discount Kuznetsov. The guy beat David Ferrer at Wimbledon and his win over Verdasco on Thursday was also impressive. Murray, though, was a completely different player on Thursday than he was during a debacle of a first round. Murray in 3.
Nick Kyrgios vs. (16) Tommy Robredo: I know Kyrgios beat Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon and all, but night session on Ashe on Labor Day weekend? Seriously? Seriously? Alas, Kyrgios won’t complain. And neither will fans when they see what this kid brings to the table. This may be be a redux of Robredo vs. Ernests Gulbis at the 2007 Open. Or maybe not. Kyrgios in 4.
(10) Kei Nishikori vs. Leonardo Mayer: There’s not much to say about this one, except that Nishikori should win comfortably–IF he’s healthy. And that’s always a big IF. Nishikori in 3.
Victor Estrella Burgos vs. (5) Milos Raonic: The Dominican Republic fans have been awesome for Estrella Burgos this week. They will have to be even more awesome for this one because in terms of talent, even Estrella Burgos would admit he is out of his league against Raonic. No offense to the underdog, but Raonic vs. Borna Coric would have been better. Raonic in 3.
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