Day three of the ATP Monte Carlo Masters promises thrilling clay-court action as World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz kicks off his title defense against Argentina’s clay-court expert, Sebastian Baez. Let’s delve into the predictions for who will advance to the next round.
ATP Monte Carlo Day 3 Match Previews and Predictions
Roberto Bautista Agut vs Matteo Berrettini
Head-to-head: Berrettini 4-1 Bautista Agut
Roberto Bautista Agut secured a main draw spot as a lucky loser despite a qualifying loss to Alexander Shevchenko. Historically, he has a perfect record of reaching the second round in his 11 Monte Carlo appearances, but this streak is now under threat. While some core elements of his game persist, he appears to be past his prime. Matteo Berrettini, possessing superior offensive tools and striking the ball with greater precision, currently holds the advantage. If Berrettini can dictate rallies and keep points short, he should comfortably progress to the second round.
Prediction: Berrettini in 2 sets
Hubert Hurkacz vs Luciano Darderi
Head-to-head: first meeting
Luciano Darderi has demonstrated impressive clay-court form recently, boasting an 8-3 record on the surface in 2026. However, he’s fresh off a surprising semifinal loss to Marco Trungelliti in Marrakech, a result that momentarily keeps him out of the Top 20. To rectify this, he faces a significant challenge. An opening encounter against Hubert Hurkacz presents one of the toughest draws, irrespective of Hurkacz’s recent physical issues. Yet, Hurkacz himself has been struggling, with a string of defeats accumulating since the Australian Open, suggesting a dip in form.
Prediction: Darderi in 3 sets
Corentin Moutet vs Alexandre Muller
Head-to-head: Moutet 3-2 Muller
This fixture marks an intriguing rivalry between Corentin Moutet and Alexandre Muller. Their first encounter was an ITF final in 2017, which Moutet won. The 26-year-old left-hander also dominated their last match in Washington, securing a decisive 6-0, 6-1 victory. Muller’s retirement in the Marrakech quarterfinals generated some discussion, especially given his subsequent rapid journey to Monte Carlo, where he successfully qualified for the main draw within 24 hours. Nevertheless, this particular matchup appears favorable for Moutet, whose diverse playing style often disrupts opponents’ rhythm.
Prediction: Moutet in 2 sets
Carlos Alcaraz vs Sebastian Baez
Head-to-head: Alcaraz 3-0 Baez
Carlos Alcaraz begins his 2026 Monte Carlo Masters campaign aware that his World No. 1 ranking is at stake, with just a 200-point lead over Jannik Sinner in the live rankings as he commences his title defense. Alcaraz arrives in Monaco refreshed and energetic, having last competed at the Miami Open in March. While Sebastian Baez is a formidable clay-court player, his past performance at this specific event has been weak. Even a confidence-boosting first-round victory over Stan Wawrinka (his maiden win in Monte Carlo) is unlikely to alter his prospects against Alcaraz, who remains the undisputed top contender on clay.
Prediction: Alcaraz in 2 sets
