French Open 2025: Day 5 Anticipation and Predictions for Men’s Singles Matches

The French Open is heating up as the second round concludes on Day 5, with a talented group of 16 men vying for a spot in the final 32. Among the key matchups will be Alexander Zverev, the third seed and last year’s runner-up, facing off against Jesper de Jong. Fans and insiders alike are eager to see if Zverev can maintain his momentum and advance further in the tournament. Additional exciting contests include the clashes of rising talent and seasoned players, with Jannik Sinner vs. Richard Gasquet, Novak Djokovic vs. Corentin Moutet, and Gael Monfils vs. Jack Draper.

The Matchup: Alexander Zverev vs. Jesper de Jong

After an impressive opening match where Zverev dispatched Learner Tien without facing any break points, he enters this second-round match as a heavy favorite. His aggressive play was highlighted by a lethal forehand that dominated his opponent.

Conversely, Jesper de Jong made a dazzling comeback to defeat Francesco Passaro after losing the first two sets in his first outing. This resilience will be tested against Zverev, who is known for thriving in Grand Slam conditions. Here’s a quick look at their paths to the second round:

Player	First Round Result	Key Stats
Alexander Zverev	Defeated Learner Tien (6-2, 6-3, 6-2)	0 break points faced
Jesper de Jong	Defeated Francesco Passaro (4-6, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4)	Comeback from two sets down

Insights and Predictions for Other Key Matches

Beyond Zverev’s encounter, other matchups promise thrilling tennis. Here are predictions from experts Ateet Shrivastava, Tope Oke, and Shane Black on significant matches:

1. Alex de Minaur vs. Alexander Bublik

Ateet: De Minaur is known for his tenacity and agility on clay. He will look to wear down the powerful but inconsistent Bublik during long rallies.

Tope: With three consecutive wins over Bublik, de Minaur’s experience should shine through on the clay surface.

Shane: Bublik may have firepower, but de Minaur’s consistency makes it difficult for any opponent to find a groove.

• Prediction: De Minaur to win in 4 sets.

2. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs. Jiri Lehecka

Ateet: This is expected to be a nail-biter. Davidovich features superior movement and spins, which could make the difference.

Tope: Though Lehecka leads their head-to-head encounters, the transition to clay might turn the tide in Davidovich’s favor.

Shane: Given Davidovich’s experience on clay, he may edge out this match against the rising Czech star.

• Prediction: Davidovich Fokina to take it in 5 sets.

3. Denis Shapovalov vs. Filip Misolic

Ateet: Shapovalov is on the upswing after a strong first-round performance and if he can maintain his level, he’s in for a good shot.

Tope: Misolic has shown tenacity and could make this match more competitive than expected, having saved numerous break points in his first match.

Shane: Shapovalov’s firepower will likely overwhelm Misolic if he remains healthy and focused.

• Prediction: Shapovalov to win in 5 sets.

Conclusion

As we gear up for Day 5 at the French Open, anticipation builds not only for the matches themselves but also for the potential narratives that could unfold. Players like Zverev aim to solidify their status among the elite, while challengers like de Jong look to make a lasting impression. Fans can expect high-intensity matches filled with drama, strategy, and the sheer joy of tennis.