The first of the nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments is underway, with Indian Wells taking place in March once again after the pandemic. The draw boasts of 96 players and it’s a jam packed one. Often referred to as the “fifth slam,” there are several worthy contenders to contest for the championship.
As ever, we at LWOT preview and predict all Day 2 matches scheduled.
ATP Indian Wells Day 2 Predictions
Philipp Kohlschreiber vs Emil Ruusuvuori
Head to head – First Meeting
Philipp Kohlschreiber has struggled in 2022. Granted he’s 38 years old, the German nevertheless has been uncharacteristically inconsistent. Indian Wells should suit Kohlschreiber’s top spin heavy game as the courts are slower and bouncier. That being said, Emil Ruusuvuori has had a decent start to 2022 with his losses coming only to top players. The young Finn has an all round game to live with most and that should suffice to get the better of Kohlschreiber here.
Prediction: Ruusuvuori in 2
Tallon Griekspoor vs Sam Querrey
Head to head – First Meeting
Sam Querrey is winless this year and it’s a tricky first round again for the 2017 Wimbledon semifinalist. Tallon Griekspoor is at a career high ranking of 54 and it’s well deserved for the Dutch. Querrey is unlikely to elongate rallies and would like to dominate with his serve. Griekspoor is a decent returner and I expect him to start reading the Querrey serve better as the match progresses. Griekspoor moves on.
Prediction: Griekspoor in 3
David Goffin vs Jordan Thompson
Head to head – First Meeting
David Goffin is a shadow of the player he was some years ago. The Belgian has a beautiful and clinical game which is why it’s sad to see Goffin’s current state. A week of solid tennis can turn your season around and maybe this is the week for Goffin. Jordan Thompson hasn’t quite caused any surprises in 2022 so it’s a case of which player hits form quicker. Matchup wise, Goffin on his day is a much better baseliner and if he’s able to protect his second serve well then the Belgian should move on.
Prediction: Goffin in 3
Andy Murray vs Taro Daniel
Head to head – Murray 2-1 Daniel
The draw gods like this matchup. Andy Murray takes on Taro Daniel for the third time this year with Murray avenging the Australian Open straight sets defeat in Doha. The Brit is still searching for his peak game and he won’t stop until he finds it again. Taro Daniel came through qualifying and has had decent results in the tournaments he’s played but the slower courts at Indian Wells give Murray so much more room to defend and claw his way back. Expect Murray to showcase his defensive skills and nab the victory.
Prediction: Murray in 2
Main Photo from Getty.
