The ATP Indian Wells 2026 edition sees the Round of 16 action culminate on Day 8. Top seeds are in action including the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. As ever, we preview and predict all the scheduled matches for you.
ATP Indian Wells Day 8 Predictions
Rinky Hijikata vs Cameron Norrie
Head-to-head – First Meeting
Rinky Hijikata has enjoyed an impressive run, coming through qualifying and winning five matches in a week while knocking out two seeded players. He now faces Cameron Norrie, who dominated Alex de Minaur despite conditions that were expected to suit the Australian. This should turn into a physical baseline battle with neither player relying heavily on serve. Norrie’s greater experience and ability to create angles from the baseline may give him the edge.
Prediction: Norrie in 3
Daniil Medvedev vs Alex Michelsen
Head-to-head – Medvedev 3-0 Michelsen
Daniil Medvedev looked dominant in his win over Sebastian Baez and seems to have rediscovered his rhythm on hard courts, his preferred surface. Alex Michelsen has impressed this week with a strong run and continues to show promise. The young American plays aggressively, but that style often suits Medvedev, who excels at absorbing pace and counterpunching. Expect Medvedev to neutralise Michelsen’s power and grind out the win as he did on the previous three occasions they met.
Prediction: Medvedev in 2
Novak Djokovic vs Jack Draper
Head-to-head – Djokovic 1-0 Draper
Novak Djokovic has not looked at his best this week, dropping sets in both of his opening matches to opponents he would normally beat comfortably. Jack Draper, the defending champion, returned from a long layoff since late 2025 but looked solid in his win over Francisco Cerundolo. Draper’s heavy hitting could trouble Djokovic if the Serb’s level does not rise. If Draper serves well, this match could turn in his favor.
Prediction: Draper in 3
Carlos Alcaraz vs Casper Ruud
Head-to-head – Alcaraz 5-1 Ruud
Carlos Alcaraz remains unbeaten in 2026, although he had to fight back from a set and a break down in his last match. The Spaniard will likely relish this matchup against Casper Ruud, as his aggressive baseline game often puts Ruud under pressure. Ruud battled well to get past Valentin Vacherot, but Alcaraz’s serving, baseline dominance, and net play are currently at a much higher level. Expect Ruud to struggle to keep up with Alcaraz’s pace and variety.
Prediction: Alcaraz in 2
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
