It is day three at ATP Paris, with the second round set to get underway after a fascinating opening round. The faster indoor courts this year have made it a battle of aggression, as flat ball-striking is likely to be rewarded in Paris this week. As always, we at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the slate, including Alexander Zverev vs Lorenzo Musetti and Daniil Medvedev vs Ignacio Buse. But who will advance?
ATP Paris Day 3 Predictions
Alex Molcan vs Taylor Fritz
Head-to-head: Fritz 1-0 Molcan
It has been a tough season for Alex Molcan, who did well to reach the main draw at ATP Paris after having to come through the qualifying rounds. He backed that up with a gritty three-set win over a local player and now gets to face one of the best hard-court players in the world, Taylor Fritz. Fritz himself had to work hard in his opening match, coming back from a set down to win.
Now that he has had a chance to understand the conditions, expect the American to be much better prepared for his match against Molcan. While the Slovak will look to make this a baseline battle and test Fritz physically, the American’s big serve and aggressive groundstrokes should give him a clear edge.
Prediction: Fritz in 2
Aug 21, 2026; Mason, OH, USA; Taylor Fritz (USA) reacts after returning a shot against Ben Nakashima (USA) during the Cincinnati Open at Lindner Family Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn ImagesTommy Paul vs Daniel Merida
Head-to-head: first meeting
Tommy Paul kicked off his campaign in excellent form, securing a straight-sets win over Holger Rune. Now, he takes on Daniel Merida in a match that will certainly be decided from the back of the court. Both players are willing baseliners, but Paul is better suited to the faster surfaces. The American also has the better serve and more variety in his game. While Merida has had a solid season so far, expect Paul to come through this match and reach the third round in Paris.
Prediction: Paul in 2
Novak Djokovic vs Rinky Hijikata
Head-to-head: Djokovic 2-0 Hijikata
Novak Djokovic had to come back from a set down and reach his limits to overcome Valentin Vacherot in his opening match. His next opponent, Rinky Hijikata, is yet to drop a set in the tournament after playing three matches, having come through the qualifying rounds. Unfortunately for the Australian, this is a matchup Djokovic enjoys stylistically.
The Serbian is both the better server and the stronger baseliner in this ATP Paris contest. While he may experience some fatigue after his opening match, the gap between the two players in terms of overall level is simply too big to overlook.
Prediction: Djokovic in 2
Main photo credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
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