The action at Indian Wells continues at a rapid pace with four more ATP matches scheduled for Tuesday. A particular highlight is anticipated with the clash between World No. 2 Jannik Sinner and Joao Fonseca, who consistently draws strong support from his Brazilian fans. We’re providing our predictions for all four of these upcoming encounters; who do you believe will advance?
ATP Indian Wells Day 7 Match Previews
Felix Auger-Aliassime vs Arthur Fils
Head-to-head: Auger-Aliassime 1-0 Fils
Felix Auger-Aliassime enters this match battle-hardened, having secured tough victories against Gael Monfils and Gabriel Diallo. In contrast, Arthur Fils recorded more straightforward wins over Dino Prizmic and Marton Fucsovics. Their previous encounter a few weeks prior in Montpellier saw Auger-Aliassime comfortably defeat the Frenchman on an indoor hard court. However, on the significantly slower outdoor courts of Indian Wells, Fils’s prospects appear more promising. His ability to consistently return Auger-Aliassime’s powerful serves could be a decisive factor.
Prediction: Fils in 3
Alexander Zverev vs Frances Tiafoe
Head-to-head: Zverev 8-1 Tiafoe
The historical head-to-head record does not offer much comfort for Tiafoe, with his sole victory against Zverev occurring over eight years ago on home soil in Cincinnati. While Zverev, a three-time Grand Slam finalist, displayed some vulnerability in a close contest against Brandon Nakashima in the last round, a win for Tiafoe still seems improbable. Zverev’s potent serve and reliable groundstrokes present a challenging stylistic matchup for his opponent.
Prediction: Zverev in 2
Learner Tien vs Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
Head-to-head: Davidovich Fokina 1-0 Tien
Both players achieved impressive wins in the preceding round; Tien defeated Ben Shelton (who was reportedly not at full fitness), and Davidovich Fokina triumphed over Jakub Mensik. This match is anticipated to be tightly contested, with the outcome likely determined by small differences. Both players typically adopt an aggressive style, with Davidovich Fokina having shown particular intensity this week. Ultimately, I lean slightly towards Tien, believing he will demonstrate greater resilience during critical junctures.
Prediction: Tien in 3
Jannik Sinner vs Joao Fonseca
Head-to-head: First meeting
Joao Fonseca has justified the considerable buzz surrounding him with outstanding displays against Karen Khachanov and Tommy Paul. However, despite these impressive outcomes, I do not foresee him coming close to defeating Sinner. Overcoming the four-time Grand Slam champion, particularly on a hard court, demands unwavering persistence and concentration. Fonseca typically experiences brief lapses in focus and intensity during matches, which would be detrimental against an opponent of Sinner’s caliber.
Prediction: Sinner in 2
