Predicted Winners in BOLD
Both Fed and Cuevas are Drawing Confidence from Istanbul
Damir Dzumhur (BIH) vs. Roger Federer (SUI) [2] – This match is pitting the most known player vs. one of the most unknown players remaining in the draw. A pro-level opponent swinging freely with nothing to lose can be dangerous, but Federer has been through matches such as these before. Unless Federer struggles with his own form, I expect him to advance.
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) [14] vs. Pablo Andujar (ESP) – Andujar has been impressive through his first two matches. Tsonga is part of a wave of French players doing well in Paris. Tsonga has more weapons, and I think over a 3 of 5 set match that will be the difference.
Gael Monfils (FRA) [13] vs. Pablo Cuevas (URU) [21] – Monfils has an excellent shot vs. Federer if they link up in the 4th round, but he nearly lost a second round match. Cuevas played well in Istanbul. I think a focused Monfils advances, but I am just not confident that Monfils will be focused enough.
Stan Wawrinka (SUI) [8] vs. Steve Johnson (USA) – A huge tip of the hat to Steve Johnson who has played his way through two gritty matches. I can even think of scenarios in which Johnson wins this match, but the most likely result is Stan in 3 or 4 sets.
Benoit Paire (FRA) vs. Tomas Berdych (CZE) [4] – These is some buzz on Twitter that Paire might win this match. Berdych has demonstrated in 2015 that he wins matches he should. I think he is a solid favorite, but Paire on home soil should not be underestimated.
Rosol Showing Gamesmanship Lives – I really hate this sort of stuff
Lukas Rosol (CZE) vs. Teymuraz Gabashvili (RUS) – This is a 50-50 match in my mind, but I love the idea of an ATP based sitcom entitled “Everybody Hates Lukas.”
Tennis Abides: Dan Martin on Tennis and Life 