The sixth edition of the ATP Almaty Open marks the start of the European indoor hard-court swing. Although now an ATP 250 event, the tournament in Kazakhstan has attracted two top-20 players, promising an entertaining start to the main draw action.
ATP Almaty Day 1 Predictions
Gabriel Diallo vs. Amir Omarkhanov
Head-to-head: First meeting
Amir Omarkhanov, a 17-year-old wild card recipient, is one of Kazakhstan’s most promising young talents. His rapid improvement at the junior level, where he reached a career-high ranking of #4, earned him this spot. However, Omarkhanov is still in the early stages of his professional career. He faces Gabriel Diallo, a more seasoned player whose game is better established on this surface.
Prediction: Diallo in 2
Fabian Marozsan vs. Luca Nardi
Head-to-head: Marozsan 3-0 Nardi
In the only all-top-100 clash of the opening day, Fabian Marozsan takes on Luca Nardi. Marozsan has dominated this matchup, winning all three of their previous encounters while losing just one set. Given his perfect record against the Italian and Nardi’s recent struggles, Marozsan is favored to advance.
Prediction: Marozsan in 2
Ugo Blanchet vs. James Duckworth
Head-to-head: First meeting
James Duckworth arrived in Almaty on a six-match losing streak, but two qualifying wins may help restore his confidence. He faces a tricky opener against Ugo Blanchet, who has been in solid form recently. The Frenchman’s season was highlighted by a successful qualifying run at the US Open, and his strong performance to reach the main draw here suggests he holds the advantage.
Prediction: Blanchet in 3
Bernard Tomic vs. Corentin Moutet
Head-to-head: First meeting
Bernard Tomic has shown notable improvement this season, pushing for a return to the top 150 and ending a four-year drought for an ATP Tour match win. He battled through qualifying in Almaty, saving a match point in his final match to secure his spot. He faces Corentin Moutet, a talented but unpredictable player. While the French left-hander has superior shot-making skills, his emotional style can be his undoing. Tomic, who has demonstrated his work ethic with two three-set wins in qualifying, could capitalize if Moutet’s game unravels.
Prediction: Tomic in 3
