Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the ATP Shanghai match.
Learner Tien
Tien reached his first ATP 500 final in Beijing but was outclassed by Jannik Sinner (2:6, 2:6). That defeat does little to dampen his momentum: he has gone to three sets in six of his last nine matches and claimed big-name scalps this year, including Lorenzo Musetti, Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev. His 2025 hard-court record stands at 23-12, highlighted by a run to the round of 16 at both the Toronto Masters and the Australian Open. His key weapon is a precise forehand combined with relentless attacking intent.
Miomir Kecmanović
Kecmanović continues to struggle against left-handers, winning just two of his last eight hard-court matches against them. His current form raises further concerns: Miomir was flat and passive in rallies in Beijing, where he fell at the first hurdle to Jakub Menšík (5:7, 4:6). The Serb has a modest 15-13 record on hard courts this year, with early eliminations (first or second round) at five of his last six events. Shanghai has also been an unhappy hunting ground — he has failed to progress beyond the second match in his last three appearances here.
Learner Tien vs Miomir Kecmanović Prediction
Tien’s surge after the Beijing final, coupled with his proven ability to beat top-tier opponents, makes him the clear favourite. Kecmanović’s struggles against lefties and his lack of aggression should play directly into the American’s hands. Expect a confident win for the rising star.
