Montpellier follows the Australian Open, led by the dark horse Waw!

With Auger-Aliassime winning the Australian Open, the opening Grand Slam of the year has come to a close, reaffirming that tennis is unquestionably one of the most hectic sports globally. There’s no break; once a major finishes, smaller tournaments immediately take its place. This week, the men’s Montpellier tournament begins—let’s check out which players are continuing their nonstop competition.

Defending champion Auger-Aliassime leads as the top seed. Entering this year’s Australian Open as the seventh seed, he had to withdraw in the first round due to injury. He was the only top-eight seed not to reach the quarterfinals. Last season, he reached a career-high ranking and was expected to build on that momentum for more major success, but his start was hampered. It remains to be seen how well he has recovered from his injury.

In the same section is former French number one Fucsovics, who missed many tournaments due to injury and did not participate in this year’s Australian Open. He will face a local player in the first round.

Also in this section is Swiss veteran Wawrinka, who performed well at the United Cup and Australian Open earlier this year. Entering with a wildcard, he will continue his farewell tour, facing Medjedovic in the first round.

The second quarter is led by Dutch number one Griekspoor, whose opening opponent will be decided between two-time US Open semifinalist Busta and Kecmanovic, making for an intriguing first-round match. Another seeded player here is American Kwon.

The third quarter also features a Dutch player. Van de Zandschulp, who defeated Djokovic at the Australian Open, will face former French number one Humbert, who is in good form, having finished runner-up at a tour event in the first week of the year. Known for strong performances in lower-tier tournaments, he might deliver another solid result.

Mahachi, who won a tour event in the opening week, will continue competing. The third seed is likely to meet French powerhouse Pericard in the second round. Additionally, veteran Mannarino will battle Martinez.

The final section is led by Italian wildcard Cobolli, who was the first seeded player eliminated at this year’s Australian Open and is in urgent need of regaining form. Also in this section is two-time Masters champion Hurkacz, who was surprisingly knocked out early in the third round. Which of these two will break through this section?

Long-absent former China Open champion Basilashvili appears in the draw, which is a bit of a surprise given his prolonged absence. He will face Italian Nardi in the first round. Also in this section is Spanish veteran Agut.

Overall, it’s impressive that so many players gather for a 250-level event just one week after a Grand Slam. Who will claim the title? How will the returning Fucsovics and dark horses perform after recovery? Let’s wait and see!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Luo Cheng Qiye)