US Open: Rublev and Etcheverry Favourites in First Round Encounters

The US Open gets underway on Monday, with Andrey Rublev and Tomas Martin Etcheverry facing familiar foes in their respective first-round clashes.

Rublev's Revenge Mission Against Seyboth Wild

Sixth seed Andrey Rublev will be looking to avoid another dramatic collapse when he takes on Thiago Seyboth Wild. The pair met earlier this year in a thrilling five-set encounter at the Australian Open, where Rublev squandered a two-set lead and four match points before eventually prevailing in a tense tiebreaker.

While Seyboth Wild, ranked 69th in the world, is known for his prowess on clay, his record on hard courts is more modest. He played just one summer hard-court event before the US Open, reaching the quarter-finals in Washington D.C. Meanwhile, Rublev has enjoyed a strong summer, finishing runner-up in Montreal and reaching the quarter-finals in Cincinnati.

Given Rublev's experience and recent form, he is expected to learn from his Australian Open scare and secure a more comfortable victory this time around.

Pick: Rublev in 3

Etcheverry Seeks Redemption Against Mpetshi Perricard

In another intriguing first-round matchup, Tomas Martin Etcheverry will face Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, seeking to avenge his loss in the Lyon final earlier this year. Mpetshi Perricard claimed his first ATP title in that match, overcoming a valiant effort from Etcheverry in a tightly contested three-set battle.

Both players have enjoyed successful summers, with Mpetshi Perricard reaching the fourth round at Wimbledon and Etcheverry exhibiting consistent form. However, Etcheverry's all-court versatility gives him an edge, especially on the slightly slower US Open courts.

The Argentine will be looking to use his experience and superior game to turn the tables on his French opponent.

Pick: Etcheverry in 5

As the US Open gets underway, these two first-round clashes promise exciting battles between familiar adversaries. Both Rublev and Etcheverry will be looking to make a strong start to their campaigns, aiming for deep runs in the tournament.