The first round of the ATP Madrid Open features some exciting matchups. Gael Monfils faces Borna Gojo, while Fabio Fognini takes on Laslo Djere. Sebastian Ofner meets Hugo Gaston, and Juan Manuel Cerundolo goes up against Aleksandar Kovacevic. With a mix of experience and emerging talents, these matches are set to deliver a thrilling start to the tournament. Who will advance to the next round?
ATP Madrid Day 1 Predictions
Fabio Fognini vs Laslo Djere
Head-to-Head: Fognini 2-2 Djere
Fabio Fognini and Laslo Djere face off in Madrid with their head-to-head series tied at 2–2, highlighting a balanced rivalry. Fognini, now ranked No. 112, has had a challenging 2025 season with a 3–6 record, including a recent first-round loss to Francisco Cerundolo in Monte Carlo. Djere has shown strong form on clay this year, boasting a 14–4 record and capturing the Santiago title. Given Djere’s recent success on clay and Fognini’s inconsistent form, Djere enters this match as the slight favorite.
Prediction: Djere in 2
Sebastian Ofner vs Hugo Gaston
Head-to-Head: Ofner 2-1 Gaston
Sebastian Ofner leads Hugo Gaston 2–1 in their head-to-head, including a straight-sets win on clay last year. Ofner has had a solid start to the clay season with a few strong Challenger-level showings, while Gaston has struggled to find form, going 2–6 on the surface in 2025. Though both are capable on clay, Ofner’s recent rhythm and past success in the matchup give him the edge.
Prediction: Ofner in 3
Juan Manuel Cerundolo vs Aleksandar Kovacevic
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Juan Manuel Cerúndolo and Aleksandar Kovacevic face off in Madrid for the first time, each bringing contrasting clay-court credentials. Cerúndolo has a 19–10 record on clay this season, showcasing his comfort on the surface. Kovacevic on the other hand has had limited success on clay, with a notable win over Tomas Martin Etcheverry in Houston. While Cerúndolo’s clay-court prowess gives him an edge, Kovacevic’s recent confidence could make this a closely contested match.
Prediction: Cerundolo in 3
Gael Monfils vs Borna Gojo
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Gaël Monfils, at 38, continues to defy expectations with a strong start to 2025, including a title win in Auckland and a fourth-round appearance at the Australian Open. His recent performances, such as a victory over Fabian Marozsan in Monte Carlo, showcase his enduring athleticism and experience. Borna Gojo meanwhile has shown resilience, notably defeating Marton Fucsovics in Madrid qualifying. While this marks their first head-to-head encounter, Monfils’s form and experience make him the favorite, though Gojo’s recent momentum could pose a challenge.
Prediction: Monfils in 3
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
