Stefanos Tsitsipas hasn't had the best of time in recent months, but he's looking like his former self at Indian Wells, taking on Jiri Lehecka next.
It's been a rough few months for Tsitsipas, whose position on the ATP Rankings changed. He isn't part of the Top 10 anymore, which is very unusual considering he's been there for five years.
He's very motivated to get back there, and he's been playing like that this year. The Mexican swing wasn't spectacular, but he's looking really good right now.
He will need to be careful in this matchup because Lehecka can hurt him. He has a pretty powerful serve and a good forehand, which is all you really need on these slower courts.
He can attack Tsitsipas' backhand, which is a common target, and can bring him to victory here.
So far, they have played two times on the ATP Tour, and Tsitsipas has been able to overcome his opponent both times. Both of these matches were on hard courts, and I think the conditions suit Tsitsipas a bit more.
I think Indian Wells plays a bit better for Lehecka because he has enough time to really set up and unleash. I think he has good weapons that he can utilize, and Tsitsipas isn't certainly a huge defensive powerhouse.
| Stefanos Tsitsipas | Jiri Lehecka | |
| 2 | H2H | 0 |
| 11 | Rank | 32 |
| 25 | Age | 22 |
| 9-4 | 2024 W/L | 10-6 |
| 309-147 | Career W/L | 57-53 |
With that being said, I've been quite amazed by how well the Greek player has looked so far this week. He's barely had any problems in his matches, cruising easily.
He's served well and attacked with a lot of precision. I think that type of level, combined with his rather motivated approach recently, should be enough to get over the hump.
Prediction: Stefanos Tsitsipas to win in two sets.