Brandon Nakashima had a much tamer (and less successful) Dallas Open. He lost in the first round to Yoshihito Nishioka. The No. 6 seed is off to a rough start to the 2025 season with a meager 2-4 record to show for his efforts. With the way Opelka has been playing, it wouldn’t be considered much of an upset if he knocked Nakashima out.

Cheryl pick: Opelka in 3

Ricky pick: Nakashima in 3

(4) Matteo Arnaldi vs. (WC) Learner Tien

Most years, the Australian Open showcases a breakout talent and this year was no different. American teenager Learner Tien battled his way through three rounds of qualifying and dispatched 2024 finalist Daniil Medvedev on his way to the round of 16. Going into the event, Tien was ranked 121st in the world; he shot up the rankings to No. 81. Tien hasn’t played tournaments since he lost in Melbourne, so he has given no public indication how he might react to the additional attention–but his easy win over Adam Walton on Wednesday was encouraging.

Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi hasn’t been in particularly good form so far this year. Heading into Delray this week, the world No. 38 had won just three matches in three tournaments–and he suffered a first-round ouster at the Australian Open. Arnaldi got an opening bye in Delray Beach, so this will be his first match this week. This represents an excellent opportunity for Tien to make his way to the quarterfinals with his star continually on the rise.

Cheryl pick: Tien in 3

Ricky pick: Tien in 3