Mark Lajal vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo Preview & Prediction | 2026 Cincinnati Open | First Round

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Leftie Juan Manuel Cerundolo sits just outside the world’s top 50, so getting a win here over Mark Lajal is crucial.

Ranking points: ATP 1000

Start date/time: 14 August 2026 at 6:20 pm

Venue: Lindner Family Tennis Center, Mason, USA

Surface: Outdoor hard

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

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

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Mark Lajal vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo ticket information

Mark Lajal vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo prediction

Juan Manuel Cerundolo has enjoyed a fantastic 2026 so far and will want to extend his great form all the way up to the end of the year. However, that involves getting back on track here after losing his first game in Montreal. Beating Jannik Sinner at Roland-Garros proves that the Argentinian is a man for the big occasion and Mark Lajal has a big challenge on his hands.

The Estonian is well outside the world’s top 100 at present and had to get through consecutive three-set matches in the qualification stages to set up this first-round fixture. Cerundolo will look to snuff Lajal out quickly in rallies and not let him settle in. His experience is likely to be key and backing Cerundolo has to be favoured.

Mark Lajal vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo tip: Juan Manuel Cerundolo to win