The X factor

Tabilo was strongly backed by the Chileans during his first-round victory. He’ll once again have huge support, and that could make the difference.

Very nice debut from Tabilo, who started strong and won comfortably against Hanfmann, despite dropping a set. He could have finished this match much faster, but he lost his break advantage in the third set. I loved his match, he showed great solidity in every area. I’m keeping an eye on him because in Grand Slams he often tends to disappoint and completely run out of gas physically. This time, he looks fresh, and the fact that some fired-up Chileans are ready to cheer him on could help him find a second wind. I’m still a bit wary though.

Popyrin had a bit more trouble getting the win, but it’s the kind of match that will do him a world of good. He recently opened up about the fact that mentally, things hadn’t been going well for a few months, but apparently it’s better now and he’s on a good upward trend. This tournament might just unlock something for him. I thought he played a good first round, even if we have to point out that Dimitrov completely faded physically after two sets. Popyrin sensed it well. After that, he tightened up his game and didn’t give anything away. It’s a good match from the Australian, but we’re waiting for confirmation!

They faced each other once in 2025 at Roland-Garros, where Popyrin won relatively easily in three sets. I’d say there’s a slight general level gap between the two in Grand Slams, but current form clearly favors Tabilo. The Chilean is playing very good tennis and, as I’ve already said several times, he’s carried by a crowd that helps him enormously. Popyrin managed to get a win over Dimitrov, but his issues are not completely behind him yet.