Prediction in Shanghai!
Merida is 20–8 on hard courts this season, while Van de Zandschulp is 16–11. Merida has also enjoyed a breakthrough 2026 campaign, including his first ATP title, and multiple previews make him the slight favourite.
Match: Van de zandchulp vs merida
League / Competition: ATP Tour
Our Pick: Merida to win
Odds: 1.95
Market: Match Winner
Analyst Confidence: 5/5
Merida has been one of the breakthrough players of 2026, arriving in Shanghai with a 20–8 hard-court record and a 44–20 overall record. He also claimed his first tour-level title this season and recently came from a set down to beat Alejandro Tabilo in Davis Cup action.
Van de Zandschulp has plenty of experience and is also having a solid season, but Merida has been particularly strong on hard courts. With both players ranked close together, this should be competitive, but Merida to Win is the selection. Current prediction models give Merida a slight edge.
Prediction: Merida to Win🎾✅