French Open 2019: Could there be shocks for Fabio Fognini and Alexander Zverev on day five?
The French Open has been short on upsets, especially on the men’s side, so James Spencer has carefully picked the matches he thinks could be a spectacle today.
Fabio Fognini (9) vs Federico Delbonis
Both players enjoy playing on clay and much will be expected of the Italian after his victory in Monte Carlo.
Delbonis is a a tricky customer and the Argentine will know he has nothing to lose.
It has been suggested that Fognini has been carrying a few issues. So, don’t be surprised if there’s an upset.
Yoshihito Nishioka vs Juan Martin Del Potro (8)
The former US Open champion looked extremely impressive in his win against Nicolas Jarry in the previous round. He will hope his bludgeoning forehand is firing again against Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka.
Not to be confused with his countryman Kei Nishikori, Nishioka needed five tight sets to overcome Australia’s Mackenzie McDonald so he will be eyeing an upset in this one as Del Potro could still be vulnerable after returning from injury.
Serena Williams (10) vs Kurumi Nara
The former world number one continues her search for a joint record 24th Grand Slam with a second round clash against Japan’s Kurumi Nara.
While Serena may have laboured in the previous round against Vitalia Diatchenko, the deeper she goes in the draw the more dangerous she becomes. Wins breed confidence and you can expect Serena to be pumped for this one.
Mikael Ymer vs Alexander Zverev (5)
The 20-year-old from Sweden is considered one of the Next Gen and has a bright future ahead of him. At 169 in the world, it remains to be seen if he has enough to trouble Zverev.
The German looked shaky again at Grand Slam level needing five sets to see off Australia’s John Millman. It makes you wonder if we’ll be in for another lengthy contest.
Latest
-
Australian OpenJohn McEnroe questions Iga Swiatek’s emotional state after Australian Open exit
John McEnroe suggested world No 1 Iga Swiatek needs to rediscover a stable mindset to get back to winning ways.
-
Australian OpenRussian fans display pro-war symbols and banned flags at Australian Open
Russian fans have been questioned by police over flags and symbols displayed at the Australian Open.
-
Australian OpenJohn McEnroe on whether Novak Djokovic gets the respect he is due
John McEnroe has given his verdict on the lack of respect being shown to Novak Djokovic.
-
NewsNovak Djokovic fuelled by 2022 tribulation as title march continues
The Serbian brushed aside Andrey Rublev to set up a clash with Tommy Paul.
-
NewsWimbledon 2023: Men’s doubles matches to be abbreviated
The change puts Wimbledon in line with the other grand slams.
-
NewsAustralian Open day 10 wrap: Novak Djokovic rolls towards 10th Melbourne title
The story of the 10th day of action from Melbourne Park.
-
Australian OpenNovak Djokovic pays tribute to Roger Federer: ‘Tennis misses him
Few sports can match tennis in how great rivals can also have huge respect for one another, like how Novak Djokovic hailed Roger Federer.
-
Australian OpenNovak Djokovic reaches Australian Open semi-finals after outclassing Andrey Rublev
The nine-time champion Novak Djokovic set up a clash with American Tommy Paul for a place in the final.
-
Australian OpenTommy Paul gets better of Ben Shelton to reach Australian Open semi-final
Tommy Paul claimed a 7-6 (6), 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 victory over Ben Shelton on Rod Laver Arena.
-
Australian OpenStefanos Tsitsipas hails Mark Philippoussis’ influence on Australian Open credentials
There is a growing belief Stefanos Tsitsipas will break his Grand Slam duck in Melbourne this week, with a local favourite in his camp.