Match Details
Fixture: (21) Frances Tiafoe vs Christopher O'Connell
Date: March 22, 2024
Tournament: Miami Open 2024
Round: Second Round (Round of 64)
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida, US
Category: ATP 1000
Surface: Outdoor hardcourt
Prize Money: $8,995,555
Live Telecast: USA - Tennis Channel/TC Plus | UK - Sky Sports | Canada - TSN
Frances Tiafoe vs Christopher O'Connell preview
Frances Tiafoe will take on Christopher O'Connell in the second round of the Miami Open.
Tiafoe has made an ordinary start to the season, winning just seven of his 13 matches. His best result so far has been a semifinal appearance at the Delray Beach Open. He also reached the quarterfinals of the Hong Kong Open and the Dallas Open.
The American will enter Miami on the back of a third round exit at the Indian Wells. Tiafoe began his campaign there by breezing past Dusan Lajovic, but was outclassed 6-3, 6-3 by Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Meanwhile, Christopher O'Connell has also made a modest start to the season, chalking up an identical seven wins from 13 matches. He made a quarterfinal appearance at the Adelaide International and reached the last 16 at the Dubai Tennis Championships.
O'Connell entered Miami on the back of a second-round exit at the Indian Wells. He began his campaign with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Vit Kopriva and wil look to present a stern challenge to Tiafoe.
Frances Tiafoe vs Christopher O'Connell head-to-head
The head-to-head between Tiafoe and O'Connell is poised at 0-0 as the duo have never faced each other on the main tour.
Frances Tiafoe vs Christopher O'Connell odds
All odds sourced by BETMGM.
Frances Tiafoe vs Christopher O'Connell prediction
The Miami crowd can expect an interesting battle between Tiafoe and O'Connell in the second round.
Tiafoe has shown glimpses of his potent form, but needs to increase his level to secure a title. The American is known for his top spin heavy serve and persistent all-round game on court, both of which could be handy against his upcoming opponent.
O'Connell, meanwhile, has stuck to the task despite shaky results on tour and has the ability to give the best players on tour a run for their money. The Australian isn't afraid to use his extensive skill-set and likes to control the tempo between rallies.
Ultimately, the player who holds their nerve during crucial moments and converts their chances at regular intervals will have the upper hand in this bout. O'Connell will test Tiafoe with his tricky game, but the latter should be able to secure his place in the third round.
Pick: Tiafoe to win in three sets.