ATP Indian Wells Day 3 Predictions: Shelton vs Opelka, Fils, Tiafoe & More

The first Masters 1000 tournament of the year, ATP Indian Wells, is officially underway. All the top players are participating, promising an exciting week of competition. As always, we provide a preview and predictions for all scheduled matches, including the intriguing clash between Ben Shelton and Reilly Opelka. Who will emerge victorious?

ATP Indian Wells Day 3 Matches & Predictions

Arthur Fils vs Dino Prizmic

Head-to-head – First Meeting

Arthur Fils is in excellent form, having reached the final in Doha, and exudes confidence. Dino Prizmic is a talented young player who can be dangerous but occasionally erratic. If Fils maintains his baseline consistency and serves well, he should have the upper hand. The Frenchman is expected to control the match and secure a comfortable win.

Prediction: Fils in 2

Jenson Brooksby vs Frances Tiafoe

Head-to-head – Brooksby 3-0 Tiafoe

Jenson Brooksby has historically dominated this matchup, winning all three prior encounters against Frances Tiafoe. However, Tiafoe enters the tournament with renewed confidence after reaching the final in Acapulco. Brooksby hasn't gained much momentum this season, and given that Indian Wells courts typically play slower, this could evolve into a tight contest. If Tiafoe serves effectively and dictates play from the baseline, he might just edge Brooksby in three sets.

Prediction: Tiafoe in 3

Brandon Nakashima vs Camilo Ugo Carabelli

Head-to-head – First Meeting

Brandon Nakashima is a reliable baseline player, particularly comfortable on hard courts, whereas Camilo Ugo Carabelli is generally more effective on clay. This will mark their first meeting. Nakashima experienced a tough loss in the Acapulco semifinals, but Indian Wells presents a fresh start. The American is expected to demonstrate resilience from the baseline and leverage his powerful serve to gain an advantage.

Prediction: Nakashima in 2

Ben Shelton vs Reilly Opelka

Head-to-head – Shelton 2-0 Opelka

Ben Shelton has had an impressive start to the season, reaching the quarterfinals of the Australian Open and winning the title in Dallas. Reilly Opelka has secured a couple of wins this year and looked sharp in his opening round, but he has lost both of their previous encounters. In this clash of powerful serves, Shelton's greater baseline variety should give him an edge, even if Opelka delivers a serving masterclass to snatch a set.

Prediction: Shelton in 3