A Russian second-round matchup in Beijing pits Andrey Rublev against Roman Safiullin.
Safiullin comes in with the best result of his week, a 6-3, 6-2 win over fourth seed Flavio Cobolli. He hit through the court with his flat forehand and gave Cobolli little rhythm. That kind of upset suggests he is playing with real belief.
Rublev has the stronger tour record and more consistent baseline power, particularly on his forehand. He also has experience at the business end of big events, which should help in tight moments. His emotional swings remain the main risk.
This should be a close contest with long exchanges, and Safiullin can swing for winners if Rublev lets the first set drift. Rublev's superior return and depth give him a modest edge.
Prediction: Rublev to win in three sets. Confidence: medium.