The 2025 tennis season is up and running and the players are all set to give it their all this season. After a successful Australian Open, the players have shifted their attention to the Montpellier Open, and with lots at stake, the young guns are trying to prove their worth. One of those stars is Alexander Kovacevic. The American sensation, with nothing but the title in sight, is looking dangerous. However, standing in his way will be the Italian powerhouse Mattia Bellucci. With the stage set for the showdown, who will come out on top?
Mattia Bellucci vs Aleksandar Kovacevic: Preview
Ranked No. 98, Bellucci started strong with a straight-sets victory over Lucas Pouille, winning 6-4, 6-4. The Italian was aggressive throughout, firing 34 winners and securing 75 total points to Pouille’s 64.
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His serve was particularly effective, registering 8 aces while committing just 1 double fault. Notably, Bellucci didn’t concede a single break, saving all 10 break points he faced. He won an impressive 85% of points on his first serve (34/40) and converted 2 of 9 break points (22%).
Ranked No. 102, Kovacevic battled through a tough first-round match against David Goffin, winning 6-2, 3-6, 6-4. The American displayed strong mental resilience, winning crucial points despite both players scoring 79 points in total.
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Kovacevic’s aggressive approach resulted in 38 winners, backed by 9 aces. While he did commit 5 double faults, he maintained a solid 83% win rate on first-serve points (38/46). His ability to capitalize on break points was a key difference, converting 3 out of 6 opportunities (50%).
Both players have a powerful baseline game and strong first serves. Bellucci’s ability to defend break points and maintain consistency will be crucial against Kovacevic, who thrives on indoor hard courts (9-1 in 2025). Given Kovacevic’s recent Challenger title win and his 10-3 record this season, he enters as a slight favorite. However, Bellucci’s confidence and aggressive shot-making make this a compelling contest.
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Bellucci vs Kovacevic: Head-to-head
When it comes to the head-to-head stats between the two players, the scores are leveled at 0-0 each. Thus, this will be the first time both players take on the battlefield against one another.
Prediction: Alexander Kovacevic to win the match and advance to the next round
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Mattia Bellucci’s left-handed style can be a tricky challenge for right-handed opponents, particularly when it comes to his serve and crosscourt exchanges. His ability to construct points intelligently and extend rallies makes him a tough competitor, especially against players who rely on power. However, his game lacks a dominant weapon, such as a huge serve or a powerful forehand, so he can struggle against aggressive opponents who dictate play with their big shots. Additionally, Bellucci has limited experience facing top-tier ATP players, which could be a disadvantage in high-pressure moments.
On the other hand, Aleksandar Kovacevic’s strengths lie in his powerful first serve and aggressive forehand, which allow him to take control of rallies from the very start. He is also a solid mover and can hit winners from almost any position on the court, making him a dangerous opponent. However, his inconsistency remains a concern, if his first serve does not land well, he can become vulnerable. This allows opponents to extend points and expose weaknesses in his game. However, owing to his recent form, Kovacevic is the favorite to clinch the win and make his way into the next round.
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Debate
Can Kovacevic's power game outshine Bellucci's strategic play in their first-ever face-off?
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Can Kovacevic's power game outshine Bellucci's strategic play in their first-ever face-off?
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