Wimbledon Day 1 preview: Naomi Osaka makes SW19 return; Coco Gauff, Matteo Berrettini headline opening day

This is the underrated match of the tournament. These two heavy hitters are at different stages of their careers, but both enjoy the spotlight. Monfils remains one of the most entertaining players to take the court, while Hurkacz maintains his composure even in the most nail-biting times. The only two times they squared off head was back in 2019, with each man winning one. Five years later, we get the rubber match at a big event. The stage is set. Winner: Hurkacz

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Michelsen turned pro less than a year ago, forgoing his college eligibility.

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Tommy Paul vs. Alex Michelsen

Since his return to the tour, Paul has established himself as an American player to watch out for, defeating US Open semifinalists Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe earlier this year. Over his shoulder comes California native Alex Michelsen, an up-and-coming 19-year-old American coming full circle at Indian Wells. The two faced off in February of this year, with Paul barely edging over him in a third-set tiebreak. Michelsen is coming back for revenge, and what better place for vengeance than on home turf? Still, Paul is a tall order. Winner: Paul

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Dayana Yastremska vs. Emma Raducanu

Yastremska has come a long way since these two last faced off, in 2022, which is what makes this matchup a must-see. Her 2024 season is taking shape, with her game stepping up to the plate against seasoned players. Raducanu, on the other hand, is still searching for her footing ever since her Cinderella run at the 2021 US Open. If Raducanu wins this face-off, there’s real hope for a deeper resurgence. Winner: Raducanu

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