The matches get more intense as third-round action begins on Day 5 of the ATP BNP Paribas Open. This article features #2 seed Jannik Sinner, who will take on Denis Shapovalov. As always, we at LWOT will offer predictions for every match on the slate. But which players will advance to the next round?
ATP Indian Wells Day 5 Predictions
Arthur Fils vs Marton Fucsovics
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Marton Fucsovics played one of his best matches in a while to upset #5 seed Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets. Musetti was far from his best physical shape, but Fucsovics was tactically spot on and took time away from the Italian with aggressive shotmaking. However, Arthur Fils won’t allow that as much and will look to dictate points on his own terms.
Prediction: Fils in 2
Felix Auger-Aliassime vs Gabriel Diallo
Head-to-Head: Auger-Aliassime 1-0 Diallo
Gael Monfils was going to be a tough opponent for Felix Auger-Aliassime on these courts, and it proved to be so. Monfils played at a very high level, and it took the best tennis from Auger-Aliassime to escape. Gabriel Diallo upset Andrey Rublev with a mature performance. This was Diallo’s best win of the season and will provide him with a lot of confidence going forward. These two compatriots have played once before, with Auger-Aliassime easily winning, but Diallo should make it interesting on these slower courts.
Prediction: Auger-Aliassime in 3
Ben Shelton vs Learner Tien
Head-to-Head: Shelton 0-1 Tien
This is a mouthwatering all-American clash between two lefties who have very distinct styles but are equally effective. Neither of them was at their best in the second round and will have to step it up to win this match. In their only previous encounter, Learner Tien won in straight sets, but it was on grass. Ben Shelton has a better chance on these high-bouncing courts, and his serve will be key.
Prediction: Shelton in 3
Jannik Sinner vs Denis Shapovalov
Head-to-Head: Sinner 1-1 Shapovalov
World No.2 Jannik Sinner looked his absolute best in the second round against Dalibor Svrcina. He came to the net a lot more and executed his volleys brilliantly. Sinner needed a start like this to get his confidence rolling again and be ready for the tougher matches. Denis Shapovalov survived a battle against Tomas Martin Etcheverry and has played well against Sinner in the past. However, Sinner is just much more consistent in hitting with great pace and depth, and the Canadian won’t be able to match it.
Prediction: Sinner in 2
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
