Three to See

Indian Wells Day 9 Previews: Zverev vs. Alcaraz, Swiatek vs. Wozniacki, Lehecka vs. Sinner

Before each day’s play at the BNP Paribas Open, we’ll preview three must-see matches.

Published Mar 14, 2024

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Alexander Zverev vs. Carlos Alcaraz

Heading into their ninth battle, these two competitors are quite familiar with each other’s games, with Zverev leading 5-3. Their most recent battle was in the Australian Open quarterfinals earlier this year, where Zverev defeated Alcaraz in four sets. Zverev’s pressing baseline game challenges Alcaraz’s varietal play, making for a competitive clash each time they step out to the court. Playing the defending champion is no easy feat, especially when the slower court plays to Alcaraz's favor, but coming in with confidence should help the German. Enough, though, to beat Alcaraz again? Winner: Alcaraz

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Swiatek and Wozniacki are facing off for the first time since 2019.

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Iga Swiatek vs. Caroline Wozniacki

Both players tooks long roads to this quarterfinal. Swiatek faced Linda Noskova, who prevailed in their matchup at the Australian Open, earlier in the draw, and Wozniacki took on friend and returning mom Angelique Kerber to earn her spot. Now, the stage is set for a battle of extreme-grip groundstrokes. Wozniacki’s backhand handles pace well due to her left hand’s position, which means she’s controlling the baseline with, essentially, two forehands. When Swiatek uses her forehand looks to dictate points and move the Dane around, she'll need to be more patient than usual, as it will take one or two more extra shots to create an opening. Winner: Swiatek

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Jiri Lehecka vs. Jannik Sinner

Facing each other for the first time on tour, these 22-year-olds are ready to leave it all on the court. As Sinner breaks records for Italian tennis and establishes himself comfortably in the Top 3, Lehecka is gaining confidence with his first career title earlier this year, along with victories over Andrey Rublev and Stefanos Tsitsipas in this very tournament. If anyone can take down the Italian for the first time this year, it’s the confidence-carrying Czech. If, though, is the operative word. Winner: Sinner

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