Karen Khachanov takes on qualifier Alex Molcan in the second round after the biggest result of his week.
Khachanov beat second seed Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 6-3 in round one, a clean performance against a top-two seed. Heavy first serves and a big forehand gave him control from the start. He reached the US Open semifinals earlier this autumn, so his hard court confidence is high.
Molcan came through qualifying and then beat Arthur Rinderknech 6-2, 6-2. That scoreline shows he is reading serves well and using his slice and variety to disrupt big hitters. He is a counterpuncher who gives opponents few free points.
Khachanov's power should be the deciding factor. Molcan can extend rallies, but he will struggle to hold serve consistently against a player landing first serves at this level. Look for Khachanov to break late in each set.
Prediction: Khachanov to win in straight sets. Confidence: medium.