This article features three exciting first-round matches at the ATP Dallas Open. Kei Nishikori, who won this tournament three times in Memphis, will face Tomas Machac. As always, we here at LWOT will offer our predictions for every match on the slate for Day 3. But which players will advance?
ATP Dallas Day 3 Predictions
Brandon Nakashima vs Yoshihito Nishioka
Head-to-Head: Nakashima 0-1 Nishioka
Brandon Nakashima has had a slow start to the 2025 season and will look to win some matches this week. Nakashima possesses all the weapons to succeed on fast hard courts and will require them to overcome a tricky opponent like Nishioka, who thrives on low-bouncing courts and doesn’t make many errors. Nishioka is in better form but Nakashima’s firepower could prove to be too much for the Japanese.
Prediction: Nakashima in 3
Denis Shapovalov vs Miomir Kecmanovic
Head-to-Head: Shapovalov 4-0 Kecmanovic
Denis Shapovalov has failed to win consecutive matches this season but he would be delighted to get back on indoor courts. The Canadian won the indoor tournament in Belgrade towards the end of last year and will be looking to make another deep run this week. Kecmanovic is a dangerous opponent and has been in good form. However, his serve is not the most effective and can be attacked. Shapovalov has dominated this matchup in the past but I expect a close match which can go either way.
Prediction: Shapovalov in 3
Kei Nishikori vs Tomas Machac
Head-to-Head: first meeting
This match has all the makings of a great encounter between two extremely skilful players. Kei Nishikori has enjoyed a lot of success at the Dallas Open and has started this season brilliantly. Tomas Machac is one of the favourites to win the title, but he will need to perform at his best to win this match. Both players arrive in this match on the back of a solid win at the Davis Cup. Both possess great backhands and shotmaking from the baseline but the serve could be the difference in this match.
Prediction: Machac in 3
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
