“I still feel like I want to win matches and make some noise,” said Nick Kyrgios after a training session in Tennis Paradise. The flamboyant Aussie is looking to record a strong comeback following a wrist and abdominal injury that sidelined him from competition. However, Kyrgios will have to do more than just execute his trick shots if he wants to get the better of Carlos Alcaraz’s slayer – Botic Van de Zandschulp. A recent flare-up of his wrist injury ahead of their opening-round showcase at the Indian Wells Masters on Friday, March 7, also forced him to assert that “he can’t catch a break.” But underestimating him can prove costly. What remains to be seen is whether the Dutch powerhouse can contain the ‘Bad Boy of Tennis’, making it a must-watch contest.

Kyrgios vs Zandschulp: Preview

Currently ranked No. 1099, Kyrgios will enter the BNP Paribas Open using his protected ranking which he was able to avail in concern of his two-year injury hiatus. He returned to the tour in January this year, playing doubles with his ‘bromance’ partner, Novak Djokovic, in Brisbane. Unfortunately, the duo couldn’t move past the second round and Kyrgios was unable to register a win in the singles category. He shifted his focus to the Australian Open but exited in the first round against Jacob Fearnley.

Meanwhile, Zandschulp is coming up from the ranks of qualifications. The Dutchman, infamously known as the last player to play and defeat Spanish legend Rafael Nadal at the Davis Cup last year, hasn’t enjoyed much success this season. With multiple opening-round exits at the tournaments, it’s fair to say that the 29-year-old’s consistency hasn’t been on point. He jetted for the Masters 1000 event on the back of a qualifying round exit at the Dubai Tennis Championships.

Kyrgios vs Zandschulp: Head-to-Head

Both players, although active on the tour for years, have never crossed paths. The duo’s first-round contest in Indian Wells will mark their first match-up but, for now, their head-to-head tally stands nil at 0-0.

Prediction: Zandschulp to win in three sets

On March 5, fans saw Kyrgios struggle with his wrist during a practice session in Indian Wells. Fitness is the key to this showcase and the Aussie player seemingly isn’t getting anywhere near full recovery. Despite being a two-time quarterfinalist at the Masters 1000 event, the former World No. 13 will have to tread carefully if he hopes for a positive turnaround.

However, sudden wrist concerns mean that Kyrgios could refrain from firing his trademark explosive services and, instead, focus on moving his opponent around the court without putting in much effort. While the Australian sensation can shorten the rallies by forcing his rival to the far end with his aggressive forehand and finish points on the net, Zandschulp will be ready to face that challenge. His gameplay?

The Dutchman possesses a strong return game, heavily relying on defensive shots to frustrate his opponents. This can be a matter of concern for Kyrgios, who don’t do well when cornered. Moreover, Zandschulp’s impressive fitness and the ability to record long exchanges further help him improve his winning chances. All things considered, this match is a toss-up.

Zandschulp’s overwhelming court coverage, coupled with Kyrgios’ fitness concerns, means he will enjoy a slight edge over the 2022 Wimbledon finalist and exploit his weaknesses. However, the Aussie sensation’s unpredictable game style might help him create some magic moments for fans and if he finds his rhythm, the Dutchman will have a hard time overcoming his challenge.