Miami, USA, Round of 32
Altmeier D. vs. Struff J.L.
Both players prefer other surfaces and are not in their best form. After the recent rain, making the courts faster, I see Struff, with his powerful baseline shots and net play, having a significant advantage. Altmeier may find Struff to be one of the worst opponents for his style of play. I predict a Struff victory, though it may not be straightforward.
Cerundolo F. vs. Ofner S.
Cerundolo comes off a very positive tournament at Indian Wells, where he found a lot of consistency and rediscovered his forehand shots. Despite Ofner's victory over a never-dangerous Nishikori, I don't think he can trouble Cerundolo on this surface, especially if the Argentinian is having a good day. I predict a Cerundolo victory, possibly with one set being closely contested.
Dimitrov G. vs. Tabilo A.
Dimitrov, a strong player on this surface, is significantly better than his opponent, who I believe will not pose a challenge. The Bulgarian's shots and close responses are likely to test the opponent's court position and weak second serve. I expect a one-sided match.
Djere L. vs. Kachanov K.
I see this match as a straightforward win for Kachanov, not only stronger on this surface but also looking to redeem himself after a poor performance at Indian Wells with a first-round exit. Djere, already seen struggling against a powerful but erratic player like Wong, is likely to falter against an experienced Kachanov.
Evans D. vs. Eubanks C.
Evans, coming off a great comeback victory against Sonego, shows that players with variations can make their mark on this surface; his signature serve and backhand slice are key. Eubanks, in a rough patch on this surface, might find it very difficult against an experienced player like Evans, who presents a different ball each time. I believe this variety will be the turning point of the match.
Hanfman Y. vs. Mannarino A.
Hanfman, despite a win gifted by Ruusuvuori, has been prone to service breaks and gross errors, which could be costly against a player like Mannarino. Coming from a negative period, Mannarino will look to bounce back, and his left-handed trajectories could be lethal for the German. Although the Frenchman has also been generous lately, I think he will ultimately win, possibly struggling at the start.
Korda S. vs. Bautista R.
Korda, a local player well-accustomed to these surfaces, faces an excellent tennis player like Bautista but who is nearing the end of his career. I believe Korda will dominate, especially with his serve and forehand. Bautista gave many opportunities to Nava, who failed to capitalize on them. I see little contest here.
Lehecka J. vs. Popyrin A.
Lehecka and Popyrin, both players relying heavily on their serve, though Lehecka is more dynamic and anticipates better, which will put the Australian under pressure. Popyrin likes to control the game and attack, but this match might be decided on percentages and errors, where I favor Lehecka.
Maroszan F. vs. Rune H.
Maroszan is in a fantastic form, succeeding in everything and finding consistency in his forehand and serve. However, he still gives away too much on his backhand, Rune's strongest shot, which I believe will make the difference in this match. Rune is also playing consistently and often takes control, though he sometimes gives away too much, which he quickly compensates for with his serve. The match could be influenced by mental strength, an area Rune has been focusing on with his new coach.
Monfils G. vs. Thompson J.
Monfils is back to his levels, defying his age with excellent physical condition. He faces another veteran, Jordan Thompson, who has been playing well despite an early exit at Indian Wells, more due to fatigue than lack of skill. This could be a tight match, but I believe the Frenchman will prevail.
Musetti L. vs. Safiullin R.
Both players are in a poor period lacking results, making this a great opportunity for redemption, possibly more so for Musetti. Safiullin is more familiar with the surface, but Musetti is expected to handle the anticipated wind better. I see this match naturally extending to a third set.
Zverev A. vs. Auger-Aliassime F.
Zverev had an excellent run at Indian Wells, only losing in the quarters to the eventual winner, Alcaraz. Despite strong service and backhand, he gave away too much with his forehand, which is the strongest shot of his next opponent. Be cautious of underestimating the Canadian, who could take advantage of these opportunities, as despite being in a slump, he is still a former top 10 player. This could be a match with at least one tie-break or even decided in the third set, but much will depend on Auger-Aliassime's service percentages.