Ben Shelton will open his 2026 ASB Classic campaign with an exciting round-of-16 encounter against Francisco Comesana.
Shelton, the top seed at this year’s tournament, has not played any matches this season. His opponent, meanwhile, started the new year with a first-round exit in Hong Kong.
Ben Shelton vs Francisco Comesana: H2H & Matchup Keys
Ben Shelton and Francisco Comesana have never crossed paths on Tour before, so their current head-to-head stands at a 0-0 deadlock.
Both players enjoy playing on hardcourts as the quick conditions bolster their big serving. Fans can expect an ace fest, given that both men finished in the top-50 of the serve rating leaderboard. Shelton was place much higher at No. 9 with a score of 287.7 and Comesana at No. 50 with a score of No. 267.3.
Ben Shelton vs Francisco Comesana: Prediction, Top Bets & Odds
Shelton had a solid year in 2025, lifting his first Masters 1000 title in Toronto, making a major semifinal at the Australian Open and reaching a career-high ranking of No. 5.
For Comesana, the results were more modest but still the best of his career. He made the second week at a Masters 1000 tournament for the first time and scored just his second top-10 win over Alexander Zverev.
Heading into this encounter, both men are bound to have some rust given that they have not had much match time in the last few months. In such a case, Shelton stronger serve should give him an edge. He also possesses an explosive forehand that he can use to dictate play.
Comesana will need to take the ball early and keep his opponent on the run. A passive approach will only allow Shelton to settle into a rhythm. Once settled in, the American could run away with things.
Prediction: Shelton in straight sets
Top Bet: Over 15 aces
Safe bet: At least 18 games
Ben Shelton vs Francisco Comesana: Odds
| Player | Moneyline | Total Games |
| Ben Shelton | Over 22.5 | |
| Francisco Comesana | Under 22.5 |
Odds sourced from BetMGM
Editor’s Note: The odds could change closer to the game. The odds listed are based on available information at the time of publication.
Match Snapshot
Fixture: [1] Ben Shelton vs Francisco Comesana
Date: January 14, 2026
Tournament: ASB Classic
Round: Round of 16
Category: ATP 250
Venue: Auckland, New Zealand
Surface: Hard
Prize Money: $680,140
Live Telecast: USA – Tennis Channel | UK – Sky Sports | Canada – TSN, RDS
Pick: Shelton to win in two tight sets
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