The third round of the French Open continues, and we’ve got all the predictions for Saturday’s thrilling matches. Novak Djokovic is set to face Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic. Emerging talent Joao Fonseca from Brazil will challenge rising British star Jack Draper. Additionally, Andrey Rublev will go up against French hopeful Arthur Fils, while Ethan Quinn takes on Tallon Griekspoor. Here’s an overview of what we anticipate at Roland Garros.
Novak Djokovic vs Filip Misolic
Ateet Shrivastava: Competing against a crafty player like Corentin Moutet is always challenging, yet Djokovic handled it expertly, winning in straight sets. He served effectively throughout the match and was solid from the baseline. Although he experienced some blisters in the third set, this shouldn’t hinder him against Misolic, who will relish the chance to compete with a legend like Djokovic on center court. Djokovic in 3
Damian Kust: Misolic had an incredible chance to reach the third round but had to maintain his best form and poise under pressure, which he did. Anything beyond this point is a bonus for him. It would be great if he could snag a set against Djokovic, with whom he practiced last year. However, that’s likely the extent of his accomplishments in this matchup. Djokovic in 4
Ilemona Onekutu: Djokovic enters this match in exceptional form, while qualifier Misolic arrives with nothing to lose after his stunning victory over Shapovalov. The Austrian’s aggressive baseline style may pose a challenge early on, but Djokovic’s experience and accuracy should see him through. Anticipate a straight-set win for the Serb, though Misolic might push for a tiebreak. Djokovic in 3
Joao Fonseca vs Jack Draper
Ateet: Among Saturday’s exciting matches, this one stands out. Jack Draper had a thrilling encounter against Gael Monfils, and he can expect another charged atmosphere against Fonseca. The 18-year-old Brazilian aims to avenge his earlier loss to Draper at Indian Wells. Draper must excel on both offense and defense to secure a win. Draper in 5
Damian: Their past match at Indian Wells saw Fonseca start somewhat poorly, quickly falling behind as Draper took control. Will it be easier for him to break through Draper’s game on clay? Perhaps, but Fonseca has a history of making numerous errors in this matchup, and avoiding a repeat will be key. Draper in 4
Ilemona: Jack Draper enters this match after a successful clay season while Fonseca makes a bold debut at Roland Garros. The Brazilian’s powerful forehand and net play will challenge Draper, but if the Brit maintains his composure, his improved consistency and clutch serving should enable him to win. Expect thrilling shot-making from both players in this lefty showdown. Draper in 5
Andrey Rublev vs Arthur Fils
Ateet: Arthur Fils demonstrated immense resilience in overcoming Jaume Munar’s comeback in the second round. Despite physical struggles, he managed a comeback. However, his fitness against Rublev, who won comfortably in his match, may be an issue. Fils has shown he can beat Rublev, as seen in Monaco, but he must be in top form. Rublev needs to focus on a high first-serve percentage to cover his weaker second serve. Rublev in 5
Damian: The main concern is Fils’s physicality, as he struggled significantly in his last match. He only secured victory when he began playing aggressively. Rublev may not necessarily outperform Fils but could capitalize on any physical disadvantage Fils has. Rublev in 5
Ilemona: Rublev’s enhanced serving meets Fils’ explosive baseline play in their 1-1 head-to-head rivalry. Fils has previously dominated Rublev, but fitness concerns after an exhausting five-set match could prove detrimental. Expect Rublev’s experience to guide him through, although Fils’ home crowd may ignite an upset if he maintains offensive aggression. Rublev in 4
Ethan Quinn vs Tallon Griekspoor
Ateet: Ethan Quinn is impressively making his debut at the French Open and will play with freedom against the more seasoned Tallon Griekspoor, who has been in excellent form all season. I foresee the Dutch player winning, though not without a fight. Griekspoor in 4
Damian: Griekspoor is stepping into the role of the tournament’s potential dark horse, previously held by Francisco Cerundolo. His great form and past performance against Zverev last year suggest he’s a formidable player in this powerful hitting matchup. Griekspoor in 4
Ilemona: Griekspoor’s solid baseline play should outlast Quinn’s erratic but powerful shot-making. Griekspoor’s consistency combined with Quinn’s possible fatigue from a five-set clash indicates a likely victory for the Dutchman. Look for Quinn’s net tactics to pose early challenges before Griekspoor’s experience secures the win. Griekspoor in 5
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
