Two Americans will be in action on Monday in Miami, with Frances Tiafoe taking on French youngster Arthur Fils and veteran Reilly Opelka batting Tomas Machac. Opelka beat Indian Wells semifinalist Holger Rune on Saturday.
(16) Frances Tiafoe vs. (17) Arthur Fils
This will be the first meeting between Frances Tiafoe and French phenom Arthur Fils. Tiafoe has had a little upswing in form this week on the heels of a disappointing start to the 2025 season. The American beat an in-form Alejandro Davidovich Fokina to earn his spot in the third round, but the tournament isn’t going to get any easier. Fils had a good showing in Indian Wells, the first half of the Sunshine Double, where he lost in the quarterfinals to Daniil Medvedev.
Fils, who is ranked 18th in the world, posted an easy straight-set win over Canada’s Gabriel Diallo in the Miami second round. And while Tiafoe is ranked one spot above Fils at No. 17 in the world, the U.S. Open semifinalist’s general form suggests that Fils is the favorite in this one–although the crowd might give Tiafoe a boost to make it a battle. Tiafoe may take a set, but this one should go to the Frenchman.
Cheryl pick: Fils in 3
Ricky pick: Fils in 3
(20) Tomas Machac vs. (PR) Reilly Opelka
If this third-round match comes anywhere near their Australian Open second-round showdown, the crowd is in for a real treat. American Reilly Opelka, who has been sidelined with various injuries and surgeries for the past few years, finally appears to be back and healthy. And as such, he is one of the most dangerous floaters in the draw. At No. 114, his ranking means he can show up anywhere without seeding protections to insulate opponents from him in the early rounds.
Tomas Machac, a young star from Czechia, found that out in Melbourne. The two men battled it out for five sets before Machac eventually prevailed 6-4 in the decider. Opelka wields the most dangerous first serve on the ATP Tour, and his disruptive serve-and-volley style of play makes him dangerous to even the most seasoned opponents. As with Tiafoe, the crowd will be cheering for the American–but Machac has the edge here.
Cheryl pick: Machac in 3
Ricky pick: Machac in 3
WWW?
Big Foe has the crowd on his side…in 2;….and Mahac in 2
And he did in Indian Wells as well..
he does everywhere
Fils in 2
very possible
comment
Opelka in 3. Different court. Different scenario. Different ball game. With Opelka firing on all cylinders there’s not to much Machac can do here. Last time these 2 faced each other the court speed was a lot slower. Expect Machac to struggle here and for Opelka to take the initiative early on.