Day 4 at the ATP 250 in Hangzhou ushers in the tournament’s biggest names, with seeds Andrey Rublev, Alexander Bublik, and Corentin Moutet all stepping onto court for their first matches after opening-round byes. For some, fresh legs will be an advantage; for others, the lack of match play could be a factor against opponents who already have a win under their belt. The mix of proven stars and emerging talent promises plenty of intrigue as the event moves deeper into the week.
ATP Hangzhou Day 4 Predictions
Sebastian Korda vs Yibing Wu
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Sebastian Korda looked composed in his opening match, showing few signs of the injury that cut short his US Open campaign. His clean ball-striking and ability to dictate off both wings make him a difficult opponent on hard courts. Yibing Wu, meanwhile, hasn’t had much continuity this season but will have the backing of the home crowd. If Wu can serve well and shorten the points, he may make things interesting, though Korda’s rhythm from the baseline gives him a steady platform.
Prediction: Korda in 2
Alexander Bublik vs aleksandar Vukic
Head-to-Head: Vukic 2–1 Bublik
Alexander Bublik begins his Hangzhou run with his trademark unpredictability, capable of swinging matches with bursts of brilliance or patches of erratic play. Aleksandar Vukic comes in with momentum from a steady showing in the first round, giving him both confidence and match sharpness. Their head-to-head has produced tight contests, suggesting this one could come down to a few critical service games. If Vukic can absorb Bublik’s variety and maintain his own first-strike tennis, this could turn into a real battle.
Prediction: Bublik in 3
Corentin Moutet vs Arthur Cazaux
Head-to-Head: Moutet 1–0 Cazaux
Corentin Moutet has been steadily finding his range on hard courts, leaning on his creativity and ability to construct points with patience. His countryman Arthur Cazaux brings a different challenge, armed with explosive shot-making but still searching for consistency in longer matches. The contrast in styles sets up a fascinating dynamic: Moutet’s guile against Cazaux’s firepower. It may hinge on whether Cazaux can stay disciplined under pressure or if Moutet can draw him into extended rallies.
Prediction: Moutet in 3
Andrey Rublev vs Valentin Royer
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Andrey Rublev steps into the tournament with a wealth of hard-court pedigree, his relentless pace from the baseline and heavy serve giving him a clear blueprint for success. Valentin Royer, still learning the demands of the ATP Tour, has shown progress on this week, battling through qualifying fighting hard in the first round and will look to use this match as a test of his level. With little to lose, Royer can swing freely, though handling Rublev’s intensity is another matter. If Rublev starts fast, it may be difficult for Royer to settle, but any early resistance could make the match more engaging.
Prediction: Rublev in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports