As the sun rises over the picturesque Monte Carlo, the ATP Masters 1000 tournament heats up with a thrilling lineup on Day 2. The spotlight is firmly on the all-Russian showdown between Daniil Medvedev and Karen Khachanov, a match that promises to be a gripping encounter given their contrasting styles and recent performances.
Daniil Medvedev, currently ranked World No. 11, faces a crucial moment in his season. After a rocky start to 2025, where he has struggled to find his rhythm on the court, Medvedev's best result has been a semifinal appearance at Indian Wells. Despite this, he holds a dominant 6-2 head-to-head record against Khachanov, which dates back to their first meeting in 2017 at the Next Gen ATP Finals. However, Khachanov's recent victory over Medvedev at last year's Monte Carlo Masters adds an intriguing layer to their rivalry.
In their previous encounter on clay during the 2024 Monte Carlo tournament, Khachanov emerged victorious with a score of 6-3, 7-5, showcasing his ability to perform on the red dirt. This win not only boosted Khachanov's confidence but also highlighted Medvedev's struggles on this surface, which has historically been his least favorite. As the two players prepare to clash again, the stakes are high for both. Can Medvedev shake off the pressure and reclaim his status, or will Khachanov pull off another upset?
Meanwhile, Gael Monfils is set to entertain the crowd against Fabian Marozsan. The Frenchman, a fan favorite, has a storied history in Monte Carlo, having reached the finals in 2016 and the semifinals in 2015. Monfils, who is healthy and well-rested after a solid performance in Miami, is expected to leverage the home crowd's support to his advantage. He faces Marozsan for the third time, having split their previous encounters. With Monfils aiming for a strong start, all eyes will be on how he performs in front of his home fans.
In another exciting matchup, Denis Shapovalov will take on Marcos Giron. This clash marks the third meeting between the two players, with Giron holding a slight edge in their head-to-head record at 2-1. Both players are seeking their first main draw victory in Monte Carlo, and Shapovalov will look to build on his impressive start to the season, including a title win at the Dallas Open. With Shapovalov's explosive game on clay, he is favored to come through in straight sets.
Fabio Fognini will also be in action against Francisco Cerundolo, marking their first meeting on tour. Fognini, a former champion at the Monte Carlo Masters, is looking to regain his form, but he faces a tough challenge against the rising Argentine star, who has recently made a name for himself with strong performances in Indian Wells and Miami. Cerundolo's game thrives on clay, and he will aim to capitalize on Fognini's slower movement as the veteran approaches the twilight of his career.
The excitement is palpable as fans eagerly anticipate the outcomes of these matches. The ATP Monte Carlo Masters not only showcases the best of tennis talent but also serves as a stage for players to prove themselves on one of the most prestigious surfaces in the sport. With the tournament still in its early stages, each match carries the potential for surprises and thrilling moments.
As the day unfolds, the question remains: who will rise to the occasion and advance in this highly competitive field? Will Medvedev avenge his previous loss to Khachanov, or will the latter continue his winning streak against his compatriot? And can Monfils deliver a performance worthy of his home crowd? The answers await as the action continues in Monte Carlo.
