Top American Taylor Fritz will do battle against volatile Dane Holger Rune, while Gael Monfils attempts to prolong his run in Indian Wells against Casper Ruud. Quarterfinal spots are at stake on Wednesday.
(12) Taylor Fritz vs. (7) Holger Rune
Taylor Fritz is quietly going about the business of being one of the top players of 2024 so far. The world No. 12 is currently 12-3 on the season, including a pair of wins this week against Alejandro Tabilo and Sebastian Baez. He snagged the title in Delray Beach last month. The American hasn’t been really tested this week, but he also hasn’t played anyone of Holger Rune’s caliber yet. Fritz won Indian Wells in 2022.
Rune hasn’t won a title yet this year but got close in Brisbane, where he made the final but lost to Grigor Dimitrov. The Dane has only played one match this fortnight. He had a first-round bye, a walkover in the second round (Milos Raonic withdrew), and took out Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets in the third round.
The courts in Indian Wells suit Fritz’s game. He has historically performed well at this event and will look to make his way into the second week of play. With the crowd firmly in his corner and plenty of confidence at one of his best tournaments, expect Fritz to earn a spot in the quarters.
Cheryl pick: Fritz in 3
Ricky pick: Fritz in 2
(9) Casper Ruud vs. Gael Monfils
Veteran Gael Monfils has already defeated two seeds this week in the California desert. The world No. 54 made quick work of Max Purcell in his opener, pocketed a huge upset of No. 8 seed Hubert Hurkacz in the second round, and then dispatched Cameron Norrie in the third. The popular French player is in great form at Indian Wells.
Unfortunately for Monfils, Casper Ruud is also playing well. The Norwegian has been carefully efficient this fortnight. He looked especially good against talented French teenager Arthur Fils, whom he beat in routine straight sets.
There is no relevant matchup between Monfils and Ruud. The two men played once more than five years ag, at a time when Monfils was in much better form and prior to Ruud developing into the top player he is today. Monfils has had a great run, but it’s hard to see it extending any further.
Cheryl pick: Ruud in 2
Ricky pick: Ruud in 2
WWW?
It’s been a fun week for Gael, but it ends here…Rudd in 2….and Fritz in a close one, in 3.
Rudd