James Duckworth vs Lorenzo Sonego Preview & Prediction | 2026 Chengdu Open | First Round

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James Duckworth meets Lorenzo Sonego in the first round at the 2026 Chengdu Open at the Sichuan International Tennis Center in Chengdu, China

Ranking points: ATP 250

Start date/time: 23 September 2026 at 4:00 am

Venue: Sichuan International Tennis Center, Chengdu, China

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / US – Tennis Channel

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / US – Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest James Duckworth vs Lorenzo Sonego ticket information

James Duckworth vs Lorenzo Sonego prediction

James Duckworth and Lorenzo Sonego will do battle for a fourth time when they face-off in Chengdu.

The Italian leads the head-to-head 2-1 but both of those victories were on grass several years ago, while the Aussie’s success came a few weeks back when he claimed a 7-5 6-3 victory at Winston-Salem.

Sonego is way off the level of previous seasons and heading in the wrong direction, with the possibility he could yet end the year outside the top 100.

Duckworth has enjoyed a similar number of wins overall, but he has only ever bettered such a tally once before and his recent run to the last four at Winston-Salem suggests he is playing the more consistent tennis.

It will come down to Lorenzo and his level and overall consistency. If he can bring some of his best stuff, he will have the edge, but he’s no longer a reliable bet. 

James Duckworth vs Lorenzo Sonego tip: Over 20.5 games