The BNP Paribas Open continues with its second day of first-round matches. Among the key matchups is former semifinalist Grigor Dimitrov seeking immediate redemption against Terence Atmane, who defeated him just last week in Acapulco. Here are our detailed predictions for these exciting encounters.
ATP Indian Wells Day 2 Match Previews
Benjamin Bonzi vs Valentin Royer
Head-to-Head: Bonzi 1-0 Royer
Benjamin Bonzi recently gained crucial momentum by securing two significant victories in the qualifying rounds against tough rivals. An experienced player, Bonzi is known for his aggressive baseline play and effective serve. In contrast, Valentin Royer, despite a higher ranking, has struggled this season with only one win in eight tour-level matches. While both competitors are desperate for a win, Bonzi’s experience and proven ability on hard courts give him the edge.
Prediction: Bonzi in 3
Botic van de Zandschulp vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo
Head-to-Head: Zandschulp 0-1 Cerundolo
Juan Manuel Cerundolo has reached a career-high ranking of 70, but his strengths predominantly lie on clay courts. Although the Indian Wells courts aren’t exceptionally fast, Cerundolo’s lack of hard-court experience might be a significant disadvantage against a seasoned player like Botic van de Zandschulp. The Dutch veteran, known for past upsets including a win over Novak Djokovic in 2025 at this venue, should hold a distinct advantage if he performs near his top level.
Prediction: Zandschulp in 2
Alejandro Tabilo vs Rafael Jodar
Head-to-Head: first meeting
After a challenging 2025 season, Alejandro Tabilo appears to have found his form this year, aiming to carry his strong clay-court performances onto the hard courts. He is certainly proficient on this surface and has maintained an unbeaten record in the first round of this tournament. Rafael Jodar, though still adapting to the ATP Tour, has demonstrated significant potential. His impressive handling of Cameron Norrie’s left-handed serve in Acapulco suggests he has the tools to compete effectively here, potentially securing a victory if he can replicate that performance.
Prediction: Jodar in 3
Grigor Dimitrov vs Terence Atmane
Head-to-Head: Dimitrov 1-1 Atmane
Former World No. 3 Grigor Dimitrov gets a quick chance for payback against Terence Atmane, who defeated him in Acapulco recently. Dimitrov has shown consistent performance at Indian Wells over the last half-decade, but he’s still regaining peak form following an injury layoff. While he’s expected to hit his stride soon, Atmane is currently in good form and his game style complements well against Dimitrov’s one-handed backhand. Therefore, the Frenchman is tipped to emerge victorious.
Prediction: Atmane in 3
