As we round up the first week of the ATP Miami Open, the draw is starting to take its expected shape. But we have seen a handful of upsets already with some unexpected matchups in the remaining third-round matches. We also predict the rest of the day’s matches in a separate article. So who will reach the second week in Florida?
ATP Miami Day 6 Predictions
Quentin Halys vs Mackenzie McDonald
Head-to-head: first meeting
On a day of so many twists and turns, Quentin Halys produced one of the most jaw-dropping comebacks, perhaps only surpassed in terms of drama by Hurkacz’s exploits later during the evening. The big-serving Frenchman looked down and out against Alex de Minaur, trailing 6-7 2-5, but turned the match around in stunning fashion to win 6-7 7-6 7-6. What made the achievement special is that this is Halys’ main draw debut in Miami. He had traveled to Florida once before this, losing in the qualifying rounds in 2017.
McDonald, for his part, edged out 19th seed Matteo Berrettini in two tie-break sets. Neither player broke serve, and McDonald was forced to save a set point in the first set before getting his grip on the match. Playing the Italian might just be the perfect prep for McDonald ahead of his meeting against Halys, but this should be another close barnburner.
Prediction: McDonald in 3
Karen Khachanov vs Jiri Lehecka
Head-to-head: first meeting
Jiri Lehecka has already laid his claim as the next big thing in Czech men’s tennis. He has garnered some impressive set of results in his first full season on the ATP Tour. And following his recent breakthrough inside the world’s top 50, we can expect the 21-year-old to make some serious inroads at the business end of tournaments. Khachanov has looked slightly lethargic since setting foot outside Australian soil. Lehecka has been the complete opposite – sharp, composed, and clinical. The Russian will likely have his hands full in this one.
Prediction: Lehecka in 3
Felix Auger-Aliassime vs Francisco Cerundolo
Head-to-head: Auger-Aliassime 2-0 Cerundolo
We have seen quite a handful of repeat matches from Indian Wells. And this is one of them. Auger-Aliassime won 7-5 6-4 at the desert, but that was probably the most competitive straight sets match you are likely to see all season. That first set alone lasted 71 minutes. Cerundolo has forged a reputation as a clay-court specialist, but his semifinal run here 12 months ago disputes that narrative. Still, the conditions here will give Auger-Aliassime a significant edge and a trouble-free path to the fourth round.
Prediction: Auger-Aliassime in 2
Daniil Medvedev vs Alex Molcan
Head-to-head: first meeting
Last week, Daniil Medvedev’s matches were full of tantrums and constant discontentment. At least he is happy with the speed of the courts in Miami. That bodes well for him for the rest of the tournament. If he plays his cards right, it is tough to see anyone being a major obstacle in his path. That includes Alex Molcan who benefitted from playing an off-color Yoshihito Nishioka to get here. The fourth seed should advance unharmed.
Prediction: Medvedev in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
