Colton Smith vs James Duckworth Preview & Prediction | 2025 U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championships | First Round

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Rising American starlet Colton Smith faces Australia’s James Duckworth for a place in the second round in Houston.

Ranking points: ATP 250

Start date/time: Tuesday 1st April, 2025: UK – not before TBC / US ET – not before TBC / US PT – not before TBC

Venue: River Oaks Country Club, Houston, USA 

Surface: Outdoor clay

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

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

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Colton Smith vs James Duckworth ticket information

Colton Smith vs James Duckworth prediction

James Duckworth returns to clay for the first time since the French Open on the back of a charge to the final of the Morelia Challenger.

The Aussie world number 89 will have been buoyed by his recent form despite the 6-1 2-6 4-6 loss to Dmitry Popko.

Duckworth reached the second round on his first visit to Houston last year before losing to Frances Tiafoe and he will need to settle fast to emulate that run here against Smith.

The American world number 200 started the year just inside the world’s top 400 but has powered up the rankings with a Challenger title in Cleveland as well as an impressive push from qualifying to the second round at Indian Wells. 

The 22-year-old also came through qualifying in Houston, seeing off both Evan Zhu and Liam Draxl in straight sets but his fledgling career has mainly been centred around hardcourts. 

It’s a tough call given the lack of recent match-time on clay for Duckworth and we’re leaning towards Smith to continue his fine level this year and secure a big win for the home crowd. 

Colton Smith vs James Duckworth tip: Colton Smith to win