Round 3 results align with my prediction in all but three matches. With an accuracy of 13/16, or 81%, the top and final end of the tournament draws ever closer. My focus is more so on the exceptions or upsets, according to my predictions:
The Jaziri vs Zverev branch has been one of my weak areas for the 2017 draw. I must confess that I do not know either player and thus have been flying blind in terms of who to pick. With a 50/50 probability since Round 1, this is an example of my random selection failing consistently, for three rounds. Thus the BIG matches for this quadrant are lined up:
- Murray to face Zverev; Murray is the clear favourite, not just for this match but the grand slam overall now…
- Nishikori versus Federer: This is arguably THE match for me to watch. I love both players, and will be happy with either of them facing off against Murray. They both are an equal chance against Murray in terms of defeating him in the subsequent quarter-final.
Tomic’s lose to Evans was not a certainty. That match was a close one, but with each set falling to the Britishman, Tomic was appropriately stoic in his post-match interview in congratulating him. I expect Tsonga to get the better of Evans though in the upcoming Round 4 match-off.
Wawrinka versus Seppi sees me maintain my trust and hope in the Swiss who has been playing solidly. The lose of Ferrer to Bautista Agut sees me switch my Round 3 prediction to Milos Raonic. Ultimately, though I think the third quarter is Nadal’s to win.
Dimitrov versus Istomin sees me backing Istomin, the Djokovic slayer, who I then think will fall to the hard working Dominic Thiem. Thiem has had to play all his matches to four sets, and that depth and experience should help him prevail unless it has tired him out too much. Istomin’s journey to Round 4 also sees him playing two five-setters, and this may have tired him out more…
Reiterating my finals predictions now that they are around the corner…
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