Hubert Hurkacz meets qualifier Arthur Gea in the second round in Beijing.
Gea earned his place by beating wildcard Zhizhen Zhang 6-4, 6-3 in round one, a confident result against a local favorite. As a qualifier he has already won several matches on these courts this week, so he is well adjusted to the conditions.
Hurkacz was drawn against Learner Tien in the first round and brings a far bigger serve and a much deeper tour-level resume. On a medium-fast hard court his first serve is a weapon that should keep him in front on serve for most of the match.
The risk for Hurkacz is rhythm. Gea will look to return deep and make him play extra shots. If the Pole is serving above 70 percent, that plan will not work. Expect a competitive first set and Hurkacz to separate in the second.
Prediction: Hurkacz to win in two or three sets. Confidence: medium.