The women’s tournament has been strange, but the the men’s has been completely wackadoodle.  Who would of thought that Alexandr Dolgopolov, Milos Raonic, Ernests Gulbis, Kevin Anderson, John Isner and Julien Benneteau would ALL make the quarter-finals of Indian Wells.  Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic are the only top eight seeds remaining in the draw.  It’s been a weird one.

1. Alexandr Dolgopolov v Milos Raonic (ATP IW, QF)

Alexandr Dolgopolov

Andy Murray‘s 2014 struggles continued as Milos Raonic produced a fine comeback from a set down and then a break down in the decider to extend his head-to-head lead over Murray to 3-1. Raonic’s year has been hit by injury so far but an opening in the draw has allowed him to get matches under his belt and bring him up to the level he wants to be playing at.  Awaiting in the quarters is Alexandr Dolgopolov, who backed up his huge upset win over Rafael Nadal in the 3rd round with a fourth consecutive victory over Fabio Fognini, 6-2 6-4.

Dolgopolov is continuing the excellent form he demonstrated through February where he made the final of Rio on clay and the semi-finals of Acapulco on hard courts.  He’s always been a fun player to watch, but has never really been able to string the good stuff together.  Raonic and Dolgopolov have never played before and I think this match will be decided by a 7-5 or 7-6 scoreline in the decider.  Going for Dolgo…

Prediction: Dolgopolov d. Raonic in 3 tight sets

ATP Indian Wells Quarter-Final Prediction

Roger Federer d. Kevin Anderson in 2 very tight sets

The tennis has been brilliant this week but I am flagging! And Miami next week…