2. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) v Kukushkin, 6:50pm IST - Estimated
Grigor Dimitrov has had a very sub-par year with first round exits in the last 2 of the 4 Grand Slams. After a good showing in the French Open, his game has just deteriorated. He hasn't had much success in the ATP Tour games as well with 4 first round exits, only 2 semi-final appearances and just 1 final.
The tournament is a good opportunity for the Bulgarian to get some rhythm back to ease into form again. It will also present him a chance to climb a few places in the rankings as the 3 players above him are playing here.
He will face Mikhail Kukushkin, the man who upset Chung in the US Open a couple of months back, in the Round of 32. The Kazakhstani returns serve very well and has a good forehand off his own serve. Dimitrov can target his backhand for points.
Prediction - Grigor Dimitrov to win in straight sets.