Matteo Berrettini faces Aleksandar Kovacevic in Shanghai

The world of tennis turns to Shanghai this Tuesday, October 7, 2026, for the first round of the local tournament. Matteo Berrettini, the Italian ranked among the world's best, faces Aleksandar Kovacevic, the American on the rise in the ATP circuit. The match, scheduled for 04:00, promises to be a clash of styles between Berrettini's power and Kovacevic's consistency.

A tough draw for Berrettini

With a well-established ranking in the top 20, Matteo Berrettini arrives in Shanghai as the clear favorite. His offensive game, marked by a powerful serve and flat shots, could put pressure on his opponent from the very first balls. However, Kovacevic, known for his strong mental game, could exploit any weaknesses in Berrettini's play, particularly on returns.

Kovacevic seeking confirmation

On the other side, Aleksandar Kovacevic is aiming to confirm his place among the elite of men's tennis. After several notable performances in 2026, he approaches this match with the ambition to pull off an upset. His defensive game and ability to prolong rallies could give him opportunities against a Berrettini who can sometimes struggle in defense.

A match to watch despite the late hour

While the 04:00 start time might deter some viewers, tennis fans know that night matches often hold surprises. Between power and strategy, this duel looks set to be a captivating opening to the Shanghai tournament.