In the first round of the 2026 ASB Classic, seventh seed Sebastian Baez faces American qualifier Emilio Nava. The match is scheduled for January 12, with a start time not before 7:10 PM NZDT at the ASB Tennis Centre in Auckland, New Zealand.
Match Overview
This opening encounter is noteworthy, as the betting market has placed Nava as a slight favorite, even against the more favored Baez. Both players bring contrasting recent performances into this match.
Player Profiles
- Sebastian Baez: The Argentine player had a mixed 2025 season, achieving notable results, including a title in Rio and finals in Chile and Bucharest. He has shown strength in return games, winning 34% of first-serve return points, along with a 43% conversion rate on break points.
- Emilio Nava: The American player enters this tournament following a successful 2025 on the Challenger circuit, reaching a career-high ranking of No. 88. His game has featured a strong 75% success rate on first serves, but much of his success has been at lower-level events.
Betting Odds and Predictions
The odds indicate that Baez holds value as the underdog. Current betting lines show:
| Betting Market | Odds for Nava | Odds for Baez |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | -134 | +110 |
| Game Handicap | Nava -0.5 (-125) | Baez +0.5 (-105) |
| Total Games | Over 22.5 (-118) | Under 22.5 (-122) |
| Set Betting | Nava 2–0 (+185) | Baez 2–0 (+235) |
Given their styles of play, Baez’s capability to pressure serve and return effectively could lead to a competitive match. It is recommended to back Baez at +0.5 games, reflecting his potential to keep the match close.
Viewing Information
Fans can catch the action through various broadcasters, including:
- Tennis Channel (US)
- beIN Sports (Australia)
- Sky Sports (UK)
- Eurosport (Europe)
Live streaming options may include Tennis TV and the ATP Tour app, depending on the viewer’s location.
In conclusion, as Baez squares off against Nava, observers and bettors alike will be keen to see if the Argentine can leverage his experience and analytical advantage to advance in the tournament.
