Indian Wells Masters: Medvedev vs Tiafoe Tennis Prediction & Pick

TennisSection previews the 2023 Indian Wells Masters as Daniil Medvedev takes on Frances Tiafoe in the semifinal on Friday, March 17, 2023.

It is unchartered territory for both Daniil Medvedev and Frances Tiafoe who are contesting a maiden semifinal at the Indian Wells Masters. Will Big Foe end the Russian’s 18-match winning streak? Or will Medvedev’s procession towards another title face no resistance?

Daniil Medvedev vs. Frances Tiafoe Match Preview

Daniil Medvedev swatted aside Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, winning 6-3 7-5, and brushing aside fears that his ankle might not be up to the test. The Russian had rolled his ankle horribly in the fourth round against Alexander Zverev and exacerbated concerns that he was unable to walk. Medvedev though did not have any discomfort in taking down the flashy Spaniard, running like a dear and winning the small cat-and-mouse rallies. He is now two wins away from winning the Indian Wells Masters and will face a first-time Masters 1000 semifinalist in Frances Tiafoe.

Last year Taylor Fritz broke new ground at the Indian Wells Masters. Could Frances Tiafoe emulate his compatriot and do the same this week? Tiafoe, it has to be said, has benefitted immensely from a soft draw on paper at least. Before his quarterfinal win over Cameron Norrie, the highest-ranked player he played in the first week was Marcos Giron, ranked 73rd in the world. As far as cakewalk draws in a Masters tournament, this has to be right on top of the pile.

Daniil Medvedev vs. Frances Tiafoe Prediction and Pick

Daniil Medvedev leads Frances Tiafoe 4-0 in their Tour-level meetings. Tiafoe’s draw in the first week was a gift from the tennis gods. But take nothing away from Big Foe who has been mighty impressive in pulling off his spectacular shotmaking and getting the Indian Wells crowd crowing for him. But right now, Medvedev is tough as nails, and probably the toughest challenge in men’s tennis. This is a player who has won 18 matches in a row, and it would take a superhuman performance from the American to end that streak.