Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 13, 2024 1:34 am GMT
The ATP Chengdu Open is set to heat up as Aleksandar Vukic prepares to take on Borna Coric in a pivotal Round of 32 match on Thursday. Both players, currently ranked close to each other, are seeking a much-needed win to boost their confidence and rankings after disappointing performances in recent tournaments.
Match Overview
The Chengdu Open, part of the ATP 250 series, allows players to earn valuable ranking points and compete for a title. This year’s field lacks some of the biggest names in tennis, as many top players have opted to rest or participate in the Laver Cup instead. However, this offers the opportunity for less-fancied players like Vukic and Coric to capitalize on their chances.
- Date & Time: Thursday, 1:00 AM ET
- Rankings: Vukic (No. 92) vs. Coric (No. 97)
- Odds: Coric -145; Vukic +110 (according to BetMGM Sportsbook)
Recent Form
Both Vukic and Coric are looking to bounce back from early exits at the US Open. After a promising start to their careers, they have faced challenges on the ATP tour throughout the year.
- Aleksandar Vukic: Despite a higher ranking, Vukic’s form has fluctuated, leading to disappointing results. In their last meeting, he defeated Coric at a challenger event last year, which gives him a slight psychological edge.
- Borna Coric: Once a rising star after winning the Cincinnati Masters in 2022, Coric has struggled to replicate that form. Currently hovering near the 100 mark in the rankings, he faces the threat of dropping even further if he doesn’t secure wins soon.
Head-to-Head and Predictions
Their previous match-up ended in Vukic’s favor, giving him a 1-0 lead in their head-to-head record. However, recent simulations paint a tight contest ahead:
- Simulations: Dimers’ advanced model predicts Coric has a 56% chance of winning against Vukic. This forecast takes into account the challenges both have faced recently.
- Set Predictions: The model also estimates Coric has a 55% chance of winning the first set.
Analyst Greg Butyn remarked, “Recent data shows both players are desperate for a win. Coric may have the upper hand based on simulations, but Vukic can’t be counted out.” These insights suggest a competitive match rather than a one-sided affair.
What’s at Stake?
For both players, this match is crucial not just for the current tournament but also for their confidence going forward.
- Ranking Implications: A victory could boost their rankings and performance in the final stretch of the season.
- Confidence Building: Winning could rejuvenate their careers, as both have struggled with consistency.
Other Matches to Watch
While Vukic and Coric’s encounter is a highlight, there are other match-ups on Day 2 of the Chengdu Open that may prove exciting. Notable matches include:
- Fabio Fognini vs. Roman Safiullin
- Kei Nishikori vs. Juncheng Shang
These matches could also impact the players’ rankings and set the tone for the tournament’s momentum.
Conclusion
The match between Aleksandar Vukic and Borna Coric at the ATP Chengdu Open is a great chance for both players to get back on track. As they walk onto the court, fans will be excited to see who can show their best skills and get closer to winning the tournament. Both players are looking to prove themselves, so get ready for an exciting game on the hard courts as the tournament heats up!
