Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the ATP Wimbledon match.
Both players were pushed to the limit in their opening matches, each requiring all five sets to book a place in the second round. Miomir Kecmanović got the job done quicker, but whether the hour he saved will prove decisive remains to be seen.
Miomir Kecmanović
Kecmanović needed 3 hours and 13 minutes to overcome Alex Michelsen. Although not the favourite on paper, the Serbian edged the odds and capitalised on his 35% break point conversion. Neither player stood out statistically, but for Kecmanović — who had lost in the opening round at Eastbourne to 35-year-old Daniel Evans (6:3, 4:6, 4:6) — this was a timely win and a confidence boost.
Jesper de Jong
Jesper de Jong, like Kecmanović aged 25, came through a gruelling 4.5-hour marathon against the towering Christopher Eubanks. The Dutchman relied heavily on his serve, firing 32 aces and winning 79% of points on first serve and 59% on second. While he did offer up 12 break points, Eubanks failed to take a single one. This was a significant step forward for de Jong, especially after falling in Mallorca qualifying to Bernard Tomic in three sets.
Miomir Kecmanović vs Jesper de Jong Prediction
This will be the first career meeting between Kecmanović and de Jong, but the likely trajectory is clear: a long, hard-fought battle. With both coming off five-setters and neither known for quick finishes, a four- or even five-set clash is firmly on the cards.
