Paris R3 Predictions: Shelton vs. Rublev, Zverev Battles Davidovich Fokina

Bassyonni

ago 4 hours

Paris R3 Predictions: Shelton vs. Rublev, Zverev Battles Davidovich Fokina

A thrilling lineup of matches awaits fans at the Rolex Paris Masters on Thursday. Two key encounters highlight the day’s events: Ben Shelton will face Andrey Rublev, while Alexander Zverev is set to clash with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

Match Preview: Shelton vs. Rublev

Ben Shelton, currently seeded fifth, and twelfth-seed Andrey Rublev will meet for the second time in their careers. Their only previous encounter took place on an indoor hard court, where Shelton emerged victorious with a score of 7-5, 6-7(3), 6-4 at the Basel final in 2024.

Both players are in need of strong performances to build momentum. Shelton is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained at the U.S. Open and has a track record of 2-2 since then. Most recently, he secured a win against Flavio Cobolli with a score of 7-6(4), 6-3.

Rublev, ranked 17th in the world, ended a four-match losing streak in Paris after previously struggling against lower-ranked opponents. His triumphs over Jake Fearnley and Learner Tien indicate that he is regaining his form, but facing Shelton presents a significant challenge.

Match Prediction: Shelton in 3

Given Shelton’s improving performance and recovery from injury, he is favored to advance to the quarterfinals in this matchup against Rublev.

Match Preview: Zverev vs. Davidovich Fokina

In another exciting encounter, defending champion Alexander Zverev faces Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who is yet to win his first ATP title. The two have faced off six times previously, with Zverev leading the head-to-head 5-1.

Despite his dominant record, Zverev has faced stiff competition lately. Davidovich Fokina recently claimed victory at the 2023 Toronto Masters, marking his first head-to-head success against Zverev. Their most recent meeting in Madrid ended in a close victory for Zverev, demonstrating the competitiveness of their matches.

Match Prediction: Zverev in 3

Although Zverev is the favorite, both players are expected to put up a fierce battle. Fatigue could play a factor for Davidovich Fokina, who is fresh from a recent tournament where he finished as the runner-up.