Eight fantastic third-round matches are scheduled on day five at the ATP Madrid Open. As always, we here at LWOT will predict every match on the slate, including Daniil Medvedev vs Juan Manuel Cerundolo – but who will book their spot in the fourth round in Madrid?
ATP Madrid Day 5 Predictions
Brandon Nakashima vs Flavio Cobolli
Head-to-head: first meeting
Brandon Nakashima played a solid match in the second round to win his first match in the Madrid Masters. Nakashima was dominant behind his serve with 15 aces and winning 84% of the first serve points. Against Flavio Cobolli, a more formidable opponent, he will have to serve in this manner to have a good chance of winning. Cobolli lost at this stage last year and will look to make the round of 16 for the first time. This match has all the makings of a close encounter, but Cobolli should have just about enough to advance.
Prediction: Cobolli in 3
Francisco Cerundolo vs Francisco Comesana
Head-to-head: Cerundolo 2-0 Comesana
This should be an intriguing battle between the two compatriots. Last year’s quarterfinalist, Francisco Cerundolo, got off to a flying start in the second round and won the match comfortably. Cerundolo has the upper hand in this rivalry of Franciscos as he beat Comesana two times last season. However, Comesana is playing some of the best tennis of his career and should be motivated to defeat Cerundolo for the first time. Although both players enjoy clay and are solid baseliners, Cerundolo possesses an additional gear at the moment, giving him the upper hand.
Prediction: Cerundolo in 3
Casper Ruud vs Sebastian Korda
Head-to-head: first meeting
Casper Ruud got off to a slightly slow start in his first match against Arthur Rinderknech, but once he found his forehand, there was no stopping him. These are not the typical clay court conditions that Ruud enjoys, but this could be a blessing in disguise for the Norwegian, as he knows he has to play more aggressively and not be passive. Sebastian Korda lost the second set against Federico Cina but he never looked out of the match and remained focussed to win the third set. Korda has the timing in his shots to trouble Ruud in these conditions, but he must serve at a high rate to put extra pressure. This match could go either way, but Ruud’s experience on this surface might just give him the edge.
Prediction: Ruud in 3
Alexander Zverev vs Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
Head-to-head: Zverev 4-1 Davidovich Fokina
Alexander Zverev played one of his best matches of the season to demolish Roberto Bautista Agut in straight sets. Zverev played with controlled aggression and hit 30 winners. His forehand looked as solid as ever, and it would be hard for anyone to beat him if he continues to play like this. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina is the last hope for local fans and will need to play at his best to have a chance against the world #2. A good start would be crucial for the Spaniard, as it would encourage the crowd to get into the match. I won’t be surprised if Davidovich Fokina gets the upset, but I can’t go against Zverev’s current form.
Prediction: Zverev in 3
Main photo credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
The remaining WTA Madrid round-of-32 matches will be completed on day six. A number of leading lights are set to take to the court, and
ATP Masters 1000 Madrid 1/16-Finals De Minaur – Shapovalov: 27.04.2025 Time TBA H2H: 4-1 Alex de Minaur has won three of his last five matches.
ATP Masters 1000 Madrid 1/16-Finals Korda – Ruud: 27.04.2025 Time TBA H2H: 1-0 Sebastian Korda has lost three of his last five matches. This week
Day six of the WTA Madrid Open will feature eight high-quality matche on what promises to be an entertaining day in the Spanish capital. As
