The European clay swing is now well and truly underway, as after a week of smaller events across the globe, action has started at the ATP Monte Carlo Masters – the first 1000 event of the swing. Day two brings a jam-packed schedule with 12 opening-round matches on the slate and as always, we here at LWOT will be predicting every match – including Andrey Rublev vs Nuno Borges and Stan Wawrinka vs Sebastian Baez. But who do you think will extend their stay in the Principality?
ATP Monte Carlo Day 2 Predictions
Valentin Vacherot vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo
Head-to-head: first meeting
Valentin Vacherot gets the special opportunity to play in front of a home crowd, which can often elevate performance. However, this will not be straightforward, as Juan Manuel Cerundolo is well-suited to slower clay conditions and thrives on extended baseline rallies. While Vacherot prefers faster surfaces, he has shown he can rise to the occasion with crowd support. With greater raw power off both wings and on serve, if he manages his error count, he should have a strong chance to come through.
Prediction: Vacherot in 3
Denis Shapovalov vs Alexander Blockx
Head-to-head: first meeting
Alexander Blockx, a 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals participant, has broken into the top 100 thanks to his precise serve, solid forehand, and consistent performances on the Challenger Tour. While he is yet to fully translate that level to the ATP Tour, this matchup against Denis Shapovalov will give him belief, especially after having beaten the Canadian at Challenger level two years ago. Clay may not perfectly suit Shapovalov’s strengths, but it does give him more time to execute his aggressive style, often helping to reduce unforced errors which can be his undoing. If that holds true here, Shapovalov coming through a close contest would not be a surprise.
Prediction: Shapovalov in 3
Daniel Altmaier vs Tomas Machac
Head-to-head: Machac 1-0 Altmaier
Daniel Altmaier and Tomas Machac present a compelling contrast in styles, with Machac likely to take on the role of aggressor through his cleaner ball striking, while Altmaier, the more natural clay-court player, will look to grind out victory in extended rallies. On slow clay, the German’s loopy one-handed backhand can pose a real challenge. However, Altmaier’s poor start to the season, including a lengthy losing streak, suggests that overcoming a player of Machac’s quality may be a step too far at this stage.
Prediction: Machac in 3
Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Francisco Cerundolo
Head-to-head: Tsitsipas 2-0 Cerundolo
Stefanos Tsitsipas, a three-time champion in Monte Carlo, faces Francisco Cerundolo in what is arguably the match of the day. Tsitsipas has experienced a dip in form over the past year, reflected in his ranking, while Cerundolo has delivered consistent results, particularly on clay, where his forehand becomes a big weapon. Both players will aim to dominate with their forehands, and whichever succeeds in doing so is likely to take control of the match. Despite recent struggles, Tsitsipas’ experience and confidence in this tournament give him the edge.
Prediction: Tsitsipas in 3
Main photo credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
