“Zverev, Tsitsipas, Medvedev,…”: Tournament Director Reveals Players Who Can Do Well in Indian Wells Masters 2021

For the first time since 2000, none of the big three: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, will play the Indian Wells Masters 1000. Accordingly, it is time for the young guns to lead the show. For this, tournament director Tommy Haas reflected on what to expect from Alexander Zverev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, and Reilly Opelka. However, will they be able to make the Indian Wells a success in the absence of the big three?

Indeed, the big three vs the next generation conversation began long ago. Thus, the former German professional knew it was a matter of time before the youngster would be all over the leaderboard. However, what they will bring to the table in the desert is still unknown.

Read More: Billie Jean King Tells Budding Tennis Players to Look up to Novak Djokovic

Indian Wells tournament director on Alexander Zverev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, and Reilly Opelka

As a German, Tommy Haas admitted that he wants Alexander Zverev to succeed more than the others at the Indian Wells Masters. He even praised his achievements in the 2021 season.

“If you look at it already, all the things he has achieved is quite phenomenal. Really, the only thing missing is a Grand Slam title. And he hasn’t really played that well also,” Haas said to Tennis Channel.

Besides, the tournament director also mentioned how Zverev had missed an easy volley on match point against Rafael Nadal in 2016. From that point, Haas knew it was “just a matter of time.”

Furthermore, former World No.2 stated how the desert conditions would suit Stefanos Tsitsipas‘s playing style. “He likes a bit more time, plays with heavy spin but can be aggressive, moves well, and can come to the net and finish it off. Those are the key aspects to do well here,” Haas said.

Moreover, he also revealed that he selfishly likes the Greek’s one-handed backhand. The German also acclaimed Tsitsipas as the one with an “all-round game.”

Lastly, Haas mentioned that he is looking forward to watching Daniil Medvedev and Reilly Opelka adjust to the conditions in Indian Wells. While Medvedev likes bit faster courts and might struggle here, Opelka has an advantage with high bounces and ball-air cutting speed.

Read More: “23 Years Old and Facing Rafael Nadal…”: Reilly Opelka Rates Tennis Press as the Worst

Exciting R2 matches in this year’s BNP Paribas Open

Before concluding, Haas added that winning early rounds and building confidence is vital in getting deep in the tournament. So, let’s see who takes on who in the second round in Indian Wells Masters.

As per the draw, Medvedev will take on American, Mackenzie McDonald, whereas Opelka will play against Japanese, Taro Daniel. In the bottom half, Zverev will lock horns with Jenson Brooksby while Tsitsipas will meet Spaniard Pedro Martinez.

All in all, these matchups will unquestionably produce some high-quality tennis. But who do you think will win this year?

Watch this story: A Look Inside Million Dollar Lifestyle of Tennis Star Novak Djokovic