Rolland Garros: 2nd Round Previews

Gael Monfils vs Jack Draper

In a compelling second-round clash at Roland Garros, French veteran Gaël Monfils faces rising British star Jack Draper. Monfils, currently ranked 42nd, is renowned for his athleticism and showmanship, while Draper, at a career-high ranking of 5, represents the new wave of British tennis talent. Their only previous meeting ended prematurely due to Monfils' retirement, leaving this match as an opportunity for both to assert dominance.

Monfils enters this match after a dramatic five-set comeback against Hugo Dellien, showcasing his resilience and experience. However, his recent form has been inconsistent, with early exits in Madrid and Hamburg. Draper, on the other hand, has been impressive on clay, reaching the quarterfinals in Rome and the final in Madrid, indicating his growing prowess on this surface. He also secured a four-set victory over Mattia Bellucci in the first round.

Draper's serve has been a significant weapon, with a high first-serve percentage and a strong win rate on first-serve points. Monfils, while still agile, has shown a decline in return games won and break-point conversion, which could be pivotal against a server like Draper. Draper's ability to dictate play with his serve and groundstrokes may prove too much for Monfils, who might struggle to keep up with the pace and consistency.

Monfils' experience and home crowd support could provide him with a psychological edge, especially if he can engage the audience with his dynamic play. However, Draper's recent form and statistical advantages position him as the favorite in this matchup. His ability to maintain composure and execute his game plan under pressure will be crucial.

Jack Draper is favored to win this encounter, with betting odds reflecting his superior form and ranking. While Monfils may challenge Draper in patches, the British player's consistency and power are likely to prevail.

Jannik Sinner vs Richard Gasquet

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner faces French wildcard Richard Gasquet in a second-round clash that pits youth against experience. Sinner, aiming for his first French Open title, has been in exceptional form, while Gasquet, a former top-10 player, is likely making one of his final appearances at Roland Garros.

Sinner commenced his campaign with a straight-sets win over Arthur Rinderknech, extending his Grand Slam winning streak to 15 matches. Gasquet overcame Terence Atmane in four sets, displaying his trademark one-handed backhand and tactical acumen. However, at 38, Gasquet's physical endurance may be tested against the relentless Sinner.

In their head-to-head, Sinner leads 3-0, including a straight-sets victory at last year's French Open. Sinner's aggressive baseline play and superior fitness levels have consistently overpowered Gasquet's finesse-based game. Statistically, Sinner's first-serve percentage and break-point conversion rate are among the best on tour, while Gasquet's return game has declined with age.

Gasquet's experience and home support may help him compete, but Sinner's power and consistency are likely to prevail. The Italian's ability to maintain focus and execute his game plan will be crucial in neutralizing any momentum Gasquet gains from the crowd.

Jannik Sinner is heavily favored to advance, with betting markets reflecting his dominance. A straight-sets victory for Sinner is the most probable outcome, given his current form and their previous encounters.

Corentin Moutet vs Novak Djokovic

Frenchman Corentin Moutet faces a daunting challenge against 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. Moutet, known for his crafty left-handed play, will need to summon his best tennis to compete with Djokovic's experience and tactical mastery.

Moutet reached the fourth round at Roland Garros last year and has a respectable 9-9 record on the main tour in 2025. Djokovic, despite some recent inconsistencies, began his campaign with a straight-sets win over Mackenzie McDonald, demonstrating his readiness for the tournament.

Statistically, Djokovic holds the edge in almost every department, including serve, return, and break-point conversion. Moutet's strengths lie in his variety and touch, but sustaining that over five sets against Djokovic is a significant ask. Djokovic's ability to adapt his game and exploit opponents' weaknesses makes him a formidable adversary.

While Moutet may challenge Djokovic in patches, the Serbian's consistency and mental fortitude make him the clear favorite. An upset is highly unlikely given the disparity in experience and achievements. Djokovic's familiarity with the Roland Garros environment and his ability to handle hostile crowds further bolster his position.

Novak Djokovic is expected to win in straight sets. His dominance in Grand Slams and superior statistics support this forecast. Betting odds heavily favor Djokovic, reflecting the anticipated outcome.

Alexander Zverev vs Jesper De Jong

Third seed Alexander Zverev takes on Dutch qualifier Jesper de Jong in the second round. Zverev, last year's finalist, is looking to go one step further, while de Jong aims to continue his impressive run at Roland Garros.

Zverev began his tournament with a commanding straight-sets win over Learner Tien, showcasing his powerful baseline game. De Jong battled past Francesco Passaro in five sets, demonstrating resilience and stamina. However, the physical toll of that match may impact his performance against Zverev.

Their previous meeting saw Zverev triumph in straight sets, and his superior serve and groundstrokes give him a distinct advantage. De Jong's game, while solid, may not possess the weapons needed to trouble Zverev consistently. Zverev's ability to control rallies and his experience in high-pressure matches further tilt the scales in his favor.

Considering Zverev's experience and form, he is expected to progress comfortably. De Jong's journey has been commendable, but this match may prove a step too far. Zverev's focus and determination to secure his first Grand Slam title add to his motivation.

Alexander Zverev is anticipated to win in straight sets. Betting odds heavily favor Zverev, reflecting the expected outcome. De Jong's impressive run may end here, but his performance has been a highlight of the tournament.