Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the ATP Doha match.
These two players have already met this year, clashing in the first round of the Australian Open, where the home favourite Alex de Minaur secured a straight-sets victory (6:1, 7:5, 6:4).
Botic van de Zandschulp
The Dutchman secured his first win of the tournament against wildcard entrant Abedallah Shelbayh (7:5, 6:3). However, Shelbayh is ranked just No. 267 in the world, and van de Zandschulp’s performance wasn’t entirely convincing. He converted only 4 of 10 break points, but at least he managed a rare win. Prior to Doha, he lost in the first round of all four tournaments he played in 2025.
Alex de Minaur
The Australian handled Roman Safiullin in a near-identical time (1 hour 37 minutes) but dropped fewer games (6:1, 7:5). His game control was clear, with one crucial break in the second set taking 11 minutes to secure. De Minaur’s overall season record is impressive (11 wins in 13 matches), including a runner-up finish in Rotterdam just before this event.
Botic van de Zandschulp vs Alex de Minaur Prediction
For a portion of the match, van de Zandschulp might hold his ground, but his inevitable dip in form will give de Minaur the upper hand. Expect the Australian to seal victory in straight sets, with a comfortable margin of at least five games.
