Miami Open Day 3 Predictions: Kyrgios vs. Khachanov, Hijikata vs. Djokovic

Kyrgios vs. Khachanov

21.03.2025, 17:30 CEST
Head-to-Head: 1-2

Nick Kyrgios has struggled recently, winning just one of his last five matches. In Miami, however, he began his campaign with a tough three-set victory over McDonald. Kyrgios is a two-time semifinalist in Miami but was eliminated in the fourth round last year by Jannik Sinner.

Karen Khachanov (image on top), meanwhile, has also faced difficulties, losing three of his last five matches. His most recent outing was a third-round defeat to Shelton at Indian Wells. Khachanov is making his ninth appearance in Miami, with his best result last season being a fourth-round exit at the hands of Alexander Zverev.

Best Bet to Make

The bookmakers have Khachanov as the favorite, and we agree with this assessment. Kyrgios and McDonald both made numerous unforced errors in their opening-round match, and Khachanov is likely to play a more consistent, safe game, capitalizing on Kyrgios’ mistakes. Kyrgios has not managed back-to-back wins since 2022.

Value Bet: Karen Khachanov -2.5 games handicap @1.67

Ruud vs. Kecmanovic

21.03.2025, 16:00 CEST
Head-to-Head: 3-3

Casper Ruud comes into this match having lost three of his last five matches. His most recent defeat came at Indian Wells, where he was ousted by Giron in the second round. In Miami last year, Ruud was eliminated in the fourth round by Jarry in straight sets. Read more about Ruud’s current racquet.

Miomir Kecmanovic, on the other hand, has also struggled lately, losing three of his last five matches. He was defeated by Dzumhur in the quarterfinals at Cap Cana last week. In Miami, Kecmanovic won his opening match against Kovacevic in straight sets. He reached the quarterfinals here in 2022 but lost in the first round last year to Shang.

Best Bet to Make

The bookmakers have Ruud as a slight favorite, but we believe Kecmanovic has the advantage. Kecmanovic has won both of their previous hard-court meetings, and we expect him to extend his winning streak against Ruud.

Value Bet: Miomir Kecmanovic to win @2.20

Hijikata vs. Djokovic

21.03.2025, 20:00 CEST
Head-to-Head: 0-1

Rinky Hijikata comes into this match with a 3-2 record in his last five matches. He suffered a second-round loss to Bublik in Phoenix last week but defeated Medjedovic in the opening round in Miami. This is Hijikata’s third appearance at the tournament, though he was eliminated in the first round last year.

Novak Djokovic has endured a rare dip in form, losing his last three matches. His most recent defeat came in Indian Wells, where Van de Zandschulp upset him in the opening round. Djokovic has been extremely successful in Miami, having won the title six times. His last appearance here was in 2019 when he was ousted by Bautista-Agut in the third round.

Best Bet to Make

The bookmakers have Djokovic as the clear favorite, and we agree. Hijikata lacks the weapons to challenge the Serb, who will be looking to end his losing streak and make a statement in his return to Miami. Djokovic’s extensive experience in the tournament and his past successes give him a strong edge.

Value Bet: Novak Djokovic -5.5 games handicap @2.10