Easy win

Opposing signals in the first round that clearly guide the analysis

FAA delivered a reassuring performance in the first round against Zhang. The Canadian showed solidity on serve, good quality hitting in rhythm and, above all, a focused attitude from start to finish. In quick conditions like the ones here, his aggressive game and his ability to shorten rallies really come into their own.

On the other side, GMP once again left a very average impression. He got through, but with a huge amount of difficulty, alternating solid spells with much scrappier passages. His current level lacks consistency and from the back of the court the level is really disastrous.

The contrast between the two dynamics is quite clear. Auger-Aliassime looks in control, structured in his game and in good physical shape, whereas GMP gives the impression that he only has his serve to cling to. Against a player outside the top 100 that might be enough, but against a top-10 player it looks like mission impossible.

Under these conditions, it’s hard to imagine a very tight match, especially if the Canadian quickly imposes his rhythm.