Rolex Shanghai Masters First-Round Betting Tips: Zhang and Struff Offer Value
Andy Schooler highlights value bets for the opening matches of the Rolex Shanghai Masters, held this week in China. As the tournament begins on Wednesday and Thursday, tennis betting enthusiasts can expect competitive clashes on the hard courts, with a few under-the-radar opportunities emerging despite the presence of established names.
Analyzing Key Matches: Zhang vs. Machac and Struff vs. Landaluce
The first round of the Shanghai Masters offers a mix of familiar and emerging talents, with betting markets reflecting a range of performances and conditions. Two matches stand out for their unpredictability and potential value.
Zhizhen Zhang v Tomas Machac (Wednesday)
Machac is the favorite, but his recent form raises questions. A 1-5 record since returning from injury and struggles with physical issues make him vulnerable against Zhang, who thrives with home crowd support.
While Tomas Machac enters as the favorite, his recent 1-5 run following injury concerns casts doubt on his consistency. In contrast, Zhizhen Zhang—despite his own recent slump—benefits from significant home support in Shanghai. The Chinese player’s best results this year have come on fast hard courts, and a strong start could pressure Machac, who lacks a reputation for mental resilience. Bettors may find value in backing Zhang at longer odds, though prudent stake management is advised given the uncertainty around court conditions.
Martin Landaluce v Jan-Lennard Struff (Thursday)
Martin Landaluce faces a challenging test against the experienced Jan-Lennard Struff. Despite being the younger player, Struff’s tactical acumen and recent form—including a win over Thiago Agustin Tirante in Beijing—suggest he can exploit Landaluce’s inexperience. Struff’s powerful, flat groundstrokes could overwhelm Landaluce, particularly if conditions favor his style. While Landaluce’s 3-10 slump and limited hardcourt success raise concerns, Struff’s track record at this level makes him a safer pick for those prioritizing consistency over long odds.
Safer Gambling Practices
Posted 15:30 BST on 06/10/2026
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