Predicted Winners in BOLD

[10] Tomas Berdych (CZE)  v [24] Alexander Zverev (GER) – I feel like it is now or never for Berdych who first made himself known on tour in 2004 by beating Roger Federer at the olympic games.  With Djokovic out, could Berdych win a lifetime achievement type of Wimbledon title?  Sure, but with my pick of Zverev, I am guessing the answer is no.

[15] Nick Kyrgios (AUS) v [22] Feliciano Lopez (ESP) – If Kyrgios takes care of his serve, he should eventually find his range on returns, passing shots, and lobs.

[31] Joao Sousa (POR) v Jiri Vesely (CZE) – Vesely will need to serve big, but I think he will do just that.

[12] Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) v [18] John Isner (USA) – Isner has a favorable head-to-head with Tsonga.  Tsonga’s game is much more well-rounded, but if Isner rides his serve to a lot of holds (as he should) his mentality has to be positive given their head-to-head record.

[32] Lucas Pouille (FRA) v [PR] Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) to finish 7-6, 6-7, 7-5 – I always stick with my original pick once a match starts.  Delpo is likely the underdog now, but this match and its ugly side will draw a lot of curious eyes.  Delpo’s best path forward is to stay the course and let experience prevail.  Will it?

[7] Richard Gasquet (FRA) v Albert Ramos-Vinolas (ESP) – Richard Gasquet is the 7th seed, was in the semifinal round last year, and is efficiently progressing through this draw without an ounce of attention being paid to him.  That is a nice set-up so far.