Madrid Open 2023: Struff vs. Shelton Tennis Prediction & Pick

TennisSection previews the 2023 Madrid Open second-round match featuring Jan-Lennard Struff vs. Ben Shelton on Saturday, April 29, 2023.

Jan-Lennard Struff vs. Ben Shelton Preview

Jan-Lennard Struff is making the most of his opportunity as a lucky loser. Can he pick his second win in the Madrid Open main draw when he takes on American lefty Ben Shelton?

Jan-Lennard Struff lost in the second round of qualifying to Aslan Karatsev, but earned a lucky loser spot, and made full use of that second chance. He defeated big-hitting Italian Lorenzo Sonego 6-3, 6-1, improving to 7-4 on clay this season, and will be heavily favored to knock out American upstart Ben Shelton.

Ben Shelton is the 32nd seed at the Madrid Open and received a bye in the first round. He’ll be playing in just his sixth clay-court match at the senior level. So far, it’s been a positive start to life on the terre battue for the young American lefty who has notched two wins in five matches.

Jan-Lennard Struff vs. Ben Shelton Prediction and Pick

Jan-Lennard Struff and Ben Shelton have not played each on the ATP Tour, with Saturday’s first-round match being their first meeting. Struff came through his opener with embarrassing ease against fellow big hitter Lorenzo Sonego. I do expect Shelton to trouble the German with his humongous serve, giving him very few opportunities to break. It’s still a huge mountain to climb for the American, but he can hang tough with his easy power and potentially win a set.