Alexei Popyrin vs Daniil Medvedev Prediction: Clash of Styles in Paris; Will Popyrin Break Medvedev’s Streak?

In a buoyant ATP 1000 tournament in Paris, Alex Popyrin takes on Daniil Medvedev in the Round of 32. The 24th-seeded Australian will try to capitalize on his very good form lately against fifth-seeded Daniil Medvedev. Given the contrasting recent performances by the players, this will, without a doubt, be an exciting match between the aggressive game of Popyrin and the tactical game of Medvedev.

The head-to-head between these two certainly favors Medvedev, as he has won all three matches played so far. The last time they met was at the ATP 1000 in Miami in 2021, and Medvedev came out on top in a closely contested match that went into three sets, 7-6, 6-7, 6-4. The result will make him psychologically stronger, though recent form of Popyrin could just give him a glimmer of hope.

Popyrin comes to Paris at a mixed bag of results - five wins and five losses in his last ten matches. Definitely, the straight-set win he had recently over Matteo Berrettini, with such a powerful serve and remaining resilient at the tiebreaks, would have boosted his confidence.

The game of Popyrin is predicated on a booming serve and aggressive baseline play; this way, he can attempt to seize control early in points to take control of the game. Such tactics force opponents onto their heels and positions that require them to play in a defensive manner. In this match, he will most probably go deep and with power at the backhand of Medvedev in search of forcing opportunities for winners.

Meanwhile, Medvedev comes into this match with a chip on his shoulder as he suffered an upset loss to Jannik Sinner in the quarterfinals of the Six Kings Slam. With his loss coming 6-0, 6-3, he will look to immediately regain the right form of tennis which has seen him dominate the ATP tour.

Medvedev is known for the most fantastic defensive skills, covering up the court. The absorbing of pressure and counterattack by placing well-calculated and well-placed shots will be very important. Probably, Medvedev's tactics will lay in exploiting Popyrin's slight tendency to overhit during crucial moments; consistency and patience will be applied in wearing him down.

Interesting dynamics were present in the forms of both these players. Recently, his win over Berrettini proved that Popyrin can pull off a victory in a match that had most of its twists and turns. On the other hand, more often than not, consistency has to be observed because in the past, he has seen struggles against top-ranked players.

Coming off a loss, Medvedev has been one of the most consistent players on tour and is known for his ability to respond. Past experience against Popyrin will play a vital role in knowing how to take advantage of his opponent's weaknesses and remaining in a normal state during moments of high tension. Of course, the key for Medvedev will be to remain patient and let Popyrin self-destruct under pressure.

• Daniil Medvedev Wins @ 1.23 Odds
• Exacts 2 Sets @ 1.43 Odds
• Daniil Medvedev Wins 2-0 @ 1.80 Odds