The second day of the ATP Open 13 Provence tennis tournament at the Palais des Sports de Marseille promises exciting matchups as players strive for victory and advancement to the next round. Headlining the day, former major champion Stan Wawrinka faces off against Portugal's Nuno Borges, igniting anticipation among the fans.
Wawrinka, now 37, brings immense experience, having previously captured three Grand Slam titles. His opponent, Borges, also looks to make his mark, but it will undoubtedly be challenging as he faces the passionate crowd cheering for the Swiss legend.
Meanwhile, local favorites, such as Benjamin Bonzi and Richard Gasquet, will also be aiming to shine on home soil. Bonzi is set to face Luca Van Assche, mapping out another French encounter. Bonzi has recorded impressive performances this season, with notable matches from the Australian Open, whereas Van Assche enters as a lucky loser, hoping to overcome early exits from recent Challenger events.
According to LWOT, "Benjamin Bonzi has had a decent season so far," showcasing his potential to be the favorite against Van Assche. The previous encounter between the on-court rivals went Bonzi's way with a close win. Fans expect Bonzi to continue his good run and secure another victory.
Another intriguing match features Belgian player Zizou Bergs who, following good form this season, will take on home competitor Clement Chidekh. Bergs has established himself as a strong contender on the ATP tour, holding a strong record of 9-3 so far this year. LWOT reported, "Zizou Bergs has been steadily improving since last season," implying he’s well prepared to handle Chidekh.
Chidekh is making his main draw debut this year after qualifying with victories against solid opponents. The match holds promise for both players as they eye the opportunity to progress. Given Berg's impressive form, he is the predicted winner here, as he is favored to proceed easily.
Jan-Lennard Struff is up next against Manuel Guinard, who secured his place as a lucky loser. This match presents another layer, as both players have struggled recently. Struff, noted for his superior serve, may find it difficult initially, as both haven't had the best starts to the season. Struff is favored to win relatively comfortably, according to expectations.
Then, there’s Daniel Altmaier squaring off against Italy's Luca Nardi. Altmaier had earlier success but is yet to make significant headway on the main Tour this year, and Nardi is also seeking to establish himself. Altmaier will certainly look to capitalize on his consistent form, having reached quarterfinals recently.
China's Zhang Zhizhen faces Quentin Halys, who has had trouble maintaining consistent performance this season, entering the match following five consecutive losses. LWOT highlights the challenges of not finishing matches, raising the question of Halys' fitness level for this encounter. This makes Zhang slightly favored, but both players need to find their rhythm.
Finally, Richard Gasquet will challenge Alexander Bublik as both players seek redemption after slow starts to 2025. LWOT noted, "Richard Gasquet will have a passionate home crowd rooting for him", which could play to his advantage. With Gasquet expected to retire soon, the stakes are high to deliver some memorable tennis. Notably, it's their first meeting, creating intrigue around how each will adapt.
While each player brings distinct challenges and advantages, the outcomes remain uncertain. Predictions abound for each match, but the unpredictability of tennis could defy expectations.
The action-packed day at the ATP Open 13 Provence promises to be thrilling, and fans from all over will be glued to their seats, waiting to see who will emerge victorious and secure their place within the tournament’s competitive ranks.