Top-seeded players on the men’s tour will kick off their 2026 BNP Paribas Open campaigns on Friday. Ahead of over a dozen weekend second-round matches, LWOT previews the California encounters on court. This set of predictions features a blockbuster matchup between Alexander Zverev and Matteo Berrettini — one current and one former Top 10 player. But who will advance?

ATP Indian Wells Day 3 Predictions
Tommy Paul vs Zizou Bergs

Head-to-head: First meeting

After an encouraging start to 2026 at the United Cup, Bergs’ season hasn’t gone entirely to plan. He’s 5-5 overall on the year, and faces an in-form Paul. The American played well in a run to the Delray Beach Open finals and reached the semifinals of this Masters 1000 event in 2024. Look for Paul to reach the third round comfortably; he’ll have to neutralize Bergs’ powerful groundstrokes. 

Prediction: Paul in 2

Learner Tien vs Adam Walton

Head-to-head: Tien 1-0

Similar to Paul, compatriot Tien has also had a steady start to 2026. Tien is from Southern California and cruised past his opponent, Walton, during their only meeting in 2025. Since climbing towards the top of the rankings, the American rarely loses to players positioned outside the Top 50. I think the crowd support will push Tien over the line if he isn’t at his best. 

Prediction: Tien in 2

Alexander Zverev vs Matteo Berrettini

Head-to-head: Zverev 4-3

Ahead of this popcorn matchup, Berrettini won in a thrilling 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 first-rounder over the unpredictable and gritty Adrian Mannarino, battling cramps. Now, Berrettini will look to claim his third consecutive win over the No. 4 seed Zverev. Neither player will likely give an inch with their reliable serves, but Zverev’s backhand will probably be the biggest weapon in this matchup.

Yet, Berrettini’s firepower has sometimes granted him the edge over the higher-ranked opponent. Zverev, notably, crashed out of his BNP Paribas Open opener in 2025, as the No. 1 seed against underdog Tallon Griekspoor. He also suffered a shocking loss in Acapulco last week to Miomir Kecmanovic. However, the German tends to recover well, and his consistency should get him over the line in a close matchup.

Prediction: Zverev in 3

Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey – Imagn Images