Elite male tennis players are set to begin their 2026 BNP Paribas Open journeys on Friday. With more than a dozen second-round matches scheduled for the weekend, this article offers insights into the upcoming California clashes. Highlighting these predictions is a highly anticipated showdown between Alexander Zverev and Matteo Berrettini, pitting a current Top 10 star against a former one. The key question remains: who will triumph?
ATP Indian Wells Day 3 Predictions
Tommy Paul vs Zizou Bergs
Head-to-head: First meeting
Despite a promising start to 2026 at the United Cup, Zizou Bergs’ season hasn’t unfolded as hoped, reflected in his 5-5 year-to-date record. He now faces a formidable Tommy Paul, who is in excellent form. The American demonstrated strong play by reaching the Delray Beach Open finals and achieved a semifinal berth at this Masters 1000 tournament in 2024. Paul is expected to advance to the third round with relative ease, though he will need to effectively counter Bergs’ powerful groundstrokes.
Prediction: Paul in 2
Learner Tien vs Adam Walton
Head-to-head: Tien 1-0
Much like his compatriot Paul, Learner Tien has also enjoyed a consistent beginning to 2026. Hailing from Southern California, Tien comfortably defeated Walton in their sole encounter back in 2025. Having steadily risen in the rankings, the young American seldom loses to players ranked outside the Top 50. Strong crowd backing is anticipated to be a significant advantage, potentially guiding Tien to victory even if his performance isn’t at its peak.
Prediction: Tien in 2
Alexander Zverev vs Matteo Berrettini
Head-to-head: Zverev 4-3
In preparation for this highly anticipated contest, Matteo Berrettini secured a dramatic first-round victory against the unpredictable Adrian Mannarino, overcoming cramps to win 4-6, 7-5, 7-5. Berrettini now aims for his third straight win against the fourth seed, Alexander Zverev. With both players possessing strong, dependable serves, neither is expected to concede easily. Zverev’s backhand, however, is likely to be the most decisive offensive tool in this encounter.
Nonetheless, Berrettini’s immense power has occasionally allowed him to triumph over higher-ranked adversaries. Zverev, surprisingly, exited the 2025 BNP Paribas Open in his opening match, despite being the top seed, falling to underdog Tallon Griekspoor. He also experienced an unexpected defeat last week in Acapulco against Miomir Kecmanovic. Despite these setbacks, the German is known for his resilience and strong recovery, and his consistent play should see him through this tight contest.
Prediction: Zverev in 3
