Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Frances Tiafoe: 2024 Indian Wells Open - Preview & Prediction

Both Stefanos Tsitsipas and Frances Tiafoe made winning starts at the 2024 Indian Wells Open, and now they will play for a spot in the next round.

The American doesn't prefer the conditions in Indian Wells at all. It's a pretty rough surface, and it's not easy to play on. He's generally looked below his usual level this year, which others have noted as well.

There doesn't seem to be a lot of joy in Tiafoe's tennis, even though he's powering through it. He bested Dusan Lajovic in the opening round here and now gets Tsitsipas, who easily ousted Lucas Pouille.

The Greek player hasn't played all too well at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells, but he needs wins and looks rather motivated, so let's see who might win this one.

Head-to-head:

Tsitsipas really doesn't like to play Tiafoe, as he struggled against him quite a bit in the past. If we look at all of their matches, even those from the Laver Cup and such, then Tsitsipas leads the H2H 4-3, but more recently, it has been Tiafoe who had the upper hand.

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The American won the last two matches played, even though it's been a while since they were played. The most recent one was a Laver Cup match in 2022, so keep that in mind.

Prediction:

Neither has played that well this year. Both had some good wins like the ones they had here in the previous round, but their play generally hasn't been very good. I do think Tsitsipas will have the upper hand on a court like this because it lines up better with what he can do.

His backhand won't be exploited as much, and he has some volleying in his game, which can counter Tiafoe's speed.

Prediction: Stefanos Tsitsipas to win in three sets.

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