Time to wrap up the second round on Day 4 of the 2023 ATP BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California. Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka both have three Grand Slam titles under their belt and even though they’re way past their primes, they keep going and remain capable of racking up wins on the main Tour. Can they keep their runs going in Indian Wells?
ATP Indian Wells Day 4 Predictions
Alex de Minaur vs Marton Fucsovics
Head-to-head: de Minaur 2-0
Alex de Minaur is coming off a title in Acapulco. While it wasn’t a strong field, it should fuel him with confidence for the Sunshine Double. The conditions are also similarly slow here. Marton Fucsovics should be a pretty decent draw right now as the Hungarian hasn’t looked that impressive since claiming that big Challenger title in Canberra at the very beginning of the season.
Prediction: de Minaur in 2
Tommy Paul vs Jan-Lennard Struff
Head-to-head: Paul 3-0
In seven sets played against Jan-Lennard Struff, Tommy Paul has only ever needed one tie-break. At the Australian Open this year, it seemed like the German was playing extremely well and then he run into the player who’s close to becoming his nemesis. Their history can’t really be argued with, but after three great matches here already, maybe this is the moment when Struff finally keeps it close against Paul?
Prediction: Paul in 3
Stan Wawrinka vs Miomir Kecmanovic
Head-to-head: First meeting
Stan Wawrinka was the runner-up in this event in 2017, but that kind of run is unlikely at this stage of his career. However, the Swiss seems capable of getting through a couple of rounds. The slower conditions will help him have enough time to set up his groundstrokes and the 37-year-old has the overwhelming power to hit through any court anyway. Miomir Kecmanovic was excellent at the Sunshine Double last year, but his form is not quite as good now.
Prediction: Wawrinka in 3
Andy Murray vs Pablo Carreno Busta
Head-to-head: First meeting
It’s a bit of a surprise that these two have never played yet. The way Andy Murray is winning his matches is likely unsustainable (all seven in deciding sets, three after saving match points), but it’s not like Pablo Carreno Busta is in great form right now. In fact, the Spaniard is lacking match rhythm with just four appearances so far this year (one win). Murray never liked the Indian Wells conditions that much, but if he can turn this into another grindfest, he might as well take it.
Prediction: Murray in 3
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
