ATP Dubai Day 2 Predictions: Tsitsipas Faces Familiar Foe, Shapovalov Seeks Momentum
Stefanos Tsitsipas begins his title defense at the ATP Dubai Open on Tuesday, facing a challenging opening-round match against Ugo Humbert. Elsewhere in the tournament, Denis Shapovalov will look to build on recent form, while Alexander Bublik aims to continue a winning streak. Here’s a look at the Day 2 predictions.
Denis Shapovalov vs. Pablo Carreno Busta
Head-to-head: Carreno Busta 5-2 Shapovalov
Despite a historical advantage for Carreno Busta, the head-to-head record isn’t overly concerning given the time that has passed since their last encounter. While Carreno Busta remains a capable professional, he is no longer playing at the level that saw him reach the semifinals of the US Open on two occasions. Shapovalov, however, appears to be regaining his form. The Spaniard will likely focus on consistency and forcing errors, but Shapovalov is predicted to advance to the next round.
Prediction: Shapovalov in 2
Alexander Bublik vs. Jan-Lennard Struff
Head-to-head: Struff 3-2 Bublik
Bublik recently defeated Struff in a close battle in Rotterdam less than two weeks ago. That victory suggests a significant improvement in Bublik’s game since the start of last season, a contest he might have lost previously. Both players possess strong serves, meaning the match could be decided by small margins. However, Bublik is favored to secure another win.
Prediction: Bublik in 3
Alexei Popyrin vs. Kamil Majchrzak
Head-to-head: Popyrin 1-1 Majchrzak
Popyrin ended a ten-match losing streak with a victory in Doha, but his momentum was quickly halted by a loss to Jannik Sinner in the following round. Majchrzak, meanwhile, has shown improved form since the beginning of 2025 and possesses a reliable serve, a key asset against Popyrin. Popyrin’s recent win doesn’t necessarily indicate sustained improvement, making Majchrzak the likely victor.
Prediction: Majchrzak in 3
Stefanos Tsitsipas vs. Ugo Humbert
Head-to-head: Humbert 3-1 Tsitsipas
This matchup presents a significant challenge for Tsitsipas, as Humbert holds a commanding 3-1 head-to-head advantage. Tsitsipas benefits from playing at a tournament where he is comfortable and has previously found success, having defended his title here before. While an indoor setting would likely favor Humbert, the outdoor hardcourt conditions in Dubai offer a slight advantage to Tsitsipas. The Greek is narrowly favored to triumph, leveraging his powerful forehand to dominate key moments.
Prediction: Tsitsipas in 3
