French Open 2023: Zverev, Musetti, Azarenka, Sabalenka Face Intriguing Second-Round Matches

French Open 2023: Preview and Predictions for Zverev, Goffin, Musetti, Monfils, Azarenka, and Sabalenka

The French Open 2023 is underway, and some intriguing matchups are set to take place in the second round. Here's a preview and predictions for four highly anticipated matches:

Alexander Zverev vs. David Goffin

Zverev and Goffin have a history of close encounters, with Zverev holding a narrow 3-2 head-to-head advantage. Their most recent meeting, on clay in Rome last year, went to a third-set tiebreaker.

Goffin, now ranked 115th, has shown signs of his old form in his five-set first-round win over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. However, Zverev, fresh off his historic victory over Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, is likely to be too strong for the Belgian.

Lorenzo Musetti vs. Gael Monfils

Musetti and Monfils are both known for their flashy and entertaining style of play. Musetti, ranked 30th, has a single-handed backhand, while Monfils, ranked 37th, is renowned for his acrobatic shots.

Their only previous meeting, on indoor hard courts in Vienna in 2021, went to Monfils in two close sets. However, Musetti has shown impressive form on clay this season, and his youth and energy could give him an edge over the veteran Monfils.

Victoria Azarenka vs. Mirra Andreeva

Azarenka, a two-time Grand Slam champion, faces a rising star in 17-year-old Andreeva. Despite the age difference, both players have similar playing styles, favoring their two-handed backhands and playing a balanced game.

Azarenka's experience and ability to handle pressure should give her the advantage in this matchup. However, Andreeva's youth and fearless attitude could make this a competitive contest.

Aryna Sabalenka vs. Moyuka Uchijima

Sabalenka, the No. 2 seed, is a heavy favorite against Uchijima, who is ranked 83rd. However, Uchijima has won 19 straight matches at the ITF level and in Roland Garros qualifying.

Sabalenka's power and consistency should be too much for Uchijima, but the Japanese player could provide a surprise if she can maintain her high level of play.

Tags: #FrenchOpen2023, #AlexanderZverev, #DavidGoffin, #LorenzoMusetti, #GaelMonfils