As the ATP Miami Open main draw kicks off on Wednesday, several first-round encounters promise thrilling tennis. Here are six standout matches to keep an eye on:
1. Fabian Marozsan vs Joao Fonseca
Joao Fonseca’s highly anticipated return to Miami will commence with a challenging match against Fabian Marozsan. Fonseca, building on a stellar Indian Wells run, is a strong contender. However, Marozsan, known for his ability to produce surprising upsets, could deliver his best tennis when least expected. The victor of this intriguing matchup will advance to face the formidable Carlos Alcaraz in the second round.
2. Ethan Quinn vs Hubert Hurkacz
This rematch follows Ethan Quinn’s straight-sets victory over Hubert Hurkacz at the Australian Open. Quinn is establishing himself on the Tour, recently claiming the Phoenix Challenger title. Despite Quinn’s current form and head-to-head advantage, former Miami champion Hurkacz, with his potent serve, should not be underestimated. Expect a contest dominated by serves and likely tiebreaks, where serve quality will be crucial. The winner will then take on Casper Ruud.
3. Denis Shapovalov vs Botic van de Zandschulp
This match features two players with contrasting styles but a shared propensity for chaotic early-round matches. Botic van de Zandschulp typically maintains a more consistent level, while Denis Shapovalov possesses higher peaks, though his challenge lies in sustaining that form. This encounter is predicted to be full of momentum swings and unlikely to be straightforward for either player. The winner will proceed to face Taylor Fritz in the second round.
4. Raphael Collignon vs Grigor Dimitrov
Both Raphael Collignon and Grigor Dimitrov experienced tough draws in Indian Wells. Collignon’s upset win over Ruud at the US Open highlights his potential despite limited main-draw experience. Dimitrov has historically performed well in Miami and appears to be regaining his best form. While this draw offers a chance for a deeper run, this first-round match will be a stern test for both. The winner will go on to play Flavio Cobolli.
5. Alexandre Muller vs Matteo Berrettini
Alexandre Muller and Matteo Berrettini are both on a comeback trail, battling recent injuries and striving to improve their rankings. Berrettini, who had a memorable quarterfinal run in Miami last year, showed promising signs at Indian Wells after a slow start to the season. Muller, despite not having played since the Australian Open, proved his capability against top competition last season. Only one can continue their resurgence here, with the winner facing Alexander Bublik in the second round.
6. Kamil Majchrzak vs Miomir Kecmanovic
After enduring two consecutive tight losses to Cobolli, Miomir Kecmanovic will be eager for a fresh start in Miami, a tournament where he’s produced some of his career-best performances. However, Kamil Majchrzak is a formidable opponent who has steadily climbed the rankings and recently pushed Novak Djokovic to the limit at Indian Wells. Majchrzak’s strong return game, demonstrated by his comeback from a break deficit in Indian Wells, could pose serious challenges for Kecmanovic. Learner Tien awaits the winner in the second round.
