The third round concludes on Day 6 of the US Open, and we will be treated to eight matches Saturday as we see who reaches the Round of 16. What will this half of the draw bring now that Carlos Alcaraz has been shockingly bounced from the tournament. Will the favorites stabilize the course? Or are more upsets to come? Our writers share their thoughts on all eight matches. We split the matches between two articles, with the other featuring Jannik Sinner vs Christopher O’Connell. Predicting these matches are Damian Kust, Tope Oke, and Yesh Ginsburg. Who do you think will advance?
US Open Day 6 Men’s Predictions
Tommy Paul vs Gabriel Diallo
Damian:
That performance over Fils was the most mature version of Diallo’s game we’ve seen so far. He knew exactly which points to pressure and applied himself in the best way possible. Maybe an upset is on the cards if he pulls it off again, but Paul won’t be as easy for him to dominate with his return skills and athleticism.
Prediction: Paul in 4
Tope:
I Would have gone with the Canadian giant Diallo to upset a jaded looking Tommy Paul in this match but the American looks like he’s back in the groove if the first set against Max Purcell in the previous round is anything to go by. He hit several magical winners around the net and a bubbling Paul on hard courts usually translates to a win.
Prediction: Paul in 4
Yesh:
Diallo is always tough to face and he’s playing his best tennis right now, but Paul has had plenty of success against similar players in the past. I expect the American to cruise.
Prediction: Paul in 3
Botic Van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper
Damian:
Van de Zandschulp beating Alcaraz in three sets was a complete shocker and while the Spaniard delivered a surprisingly passionless performance, it was still some of the best tennis the underdog had played in a while. But now it’s time for his back-to-earth moment and it won’t be easy to keep it going against a quality player like Draper.
Prediction: Draper in 4
Tope:
The way the Dutchman casually swaggered to the net after his shocking upset against the third seed, Carlos Alcaraz, looks like he’s not done here yet. He should continue his fairytale against the British #1 who is hugely talented buy in my opinion makes too many unforced errors
Prediction: Van de Zandschulp in 5
Yesh:
Nothing from the past few years from Van de Zandschulp indicate that he’s capable of playing his best tennis consistently. We haven’t seen him do that in years. And yet, how can we not expect great things from him after his performance Thursday?
Prediction: Van de Zandschulp in 3
Jordan Thompson vs Matteo Arnaldi
Damian:
It’s again matchup vs talent for Arnaldi as Thompson seems like a nightmare opponent who’ll put him in uncomfortable spots and draw out errors time and time again. But it’s also high time the Italian achieved something huge with the progress he’s made and the opportunity is there. Let’s say his quality trumps the Australian being such a pain to face sometimes.
Prediction: Arnaldi in 4
Tope:
Interesting matchup here between players who haven’t dropped a set in New York. However. I’ll simply go with the better returner and the more consistent player of the two.
Prediction: Thompson in 4
Yesh:
Arnaldi has much more upside long term, but Thompson has far more experience at the bigger stages of this event. I think Thompson’s game will frustrate the young Italian enough to advance.
Prediction: Thompson in 4
Daniel Medvedev vs Flavio Cobolli
Damian:
Is this where things get tricky for Medvedev? They might. It’s unclear if the 2021 champion is ready to be one of the main contenders for the title and this matchup might give us some good intel. Containing Cobolli’s forehand will be tough, but the Italian’s more aggressive approach right now also leads to plenty of errors. Medvedev will need to be sharp here.
Prediction: Medvedev in 5
Tope:
With Carlos Alcaraz out, Daniil Medvedev is who I’m backing to win his second title here in New York. The Italian Cobolli has had a tremendous season, but Medvedev is on a mission.
Prediction: Medvedev in 4
Yesh:
Cobolli has had an amazing year, but Medvedev seems relaxed and confident at his best Major. And now there’s not really anyone left on this side of the draw he should fear facing.
Prediction: Medvedev in 3
Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
