ATP ASB Classic Day 3: Shelton, Monfils, and Struff Headline Second-Round Matches

Top seed Ben Shelton headlines a stacked lineup of second-round matches at the ATP ASB Classic in Auckland on Wednesday. The American, who reached the final last year, faces a tough challenge against rising star Jakub Mensik, while veterans Gael Monfils and Jan-Lennard Struff clash in another marquee matchup.

Shelton, ranked No. 16 in the world, will look to shake off any early-season rust against Mensik, who has already played four matches this year. The Czech teenager, known for his powerful game, could pose a significant threat if Shelton isn’t at his best. Their only previous meeting, won by Shelton, was a tight contest, and this encounter promises to be equally competitive.

In another key match, Monfils will aim to build on his dramatic first-round comeback against Pedro Martinez. The Frenchman, down a set and a break, rallied to win in three sets, showcasing his trademark resilience. However, he faces a stern test against Struff, who delivered a dominant serving performance in his opening match. The German leads their head-to-head 2-0, but Monfils’ experience and crowd support could level the playing field.

Elsewhere, Nuno Borges takes on Mariano Navone in a battle of contrasting styles. Borges, a hard-court specialist, will look to exploit Navone’s relative inexperience on the surface. Meanwhile, Sebastian Baez and Facundo Diaz Acosta will square off in an all-Argentine clash. Baez holds a 2-0 head-to-head advantage, but Diaz Acosta’s confidence is high after a first-round upset of Cameron Norrie.

With quarterfinal spots on the line, Day 3 at the ASB Classic promises thrilling tennis and high-stakes drama. Fans can expect intense battles as players vie for momentum ahead of the Australian Open.