Coming off a remarkable 2024 season that saw him reach the finals of the US Open and the ATP Finals, Taylor Fritz, the world’s fourth-ranked tennis player, is set to make his mark on the 2025 Miami Open. Despite a somewhat lackluster performance in recent tournaments, the American star is ready to bounce back and start his Miami Open journey in style, facing Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego in the R64 round.
In 2024, Fritz set towering standards for himself, delivering astonishing performances that placed him at the pinnacle of the tennis world. However, his momentum seemed to falter in 2025, with his most notable achievement being a quarterfinal appearance at the Delray Beach Open. A disappointing fourth-round exit at the Indian Wells, following a 5-7, 4-6 defeat to Jack Draper, has left Fritz eager to regain his winning form.
On the other side of the net, Fritz’s Miami Open opponent Lorenzo Sonego has been enjoying a solid 2025 season. Demonstrating impressive form, Sonego reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, where he was defeated in a gripping four-set match by America’s Ben Shelton. The 23-year-old Italian also made it to the quarterfinals of the Open 13 and recently secured a 7-5, 7-5 victory over Argentina’s Mariano Navone in the first round of the Miami Open.
The showdown between Fritz and Sonego is not new to tennis enthusiasts. The two have clashed seven times, with Fritz currently leading the head-to-head record 5-2. Sonego’s two wins against Fritz have been on clay courts, while the American has dominated on other surfaces.
Fritz’s performance at the Miami Open has historically been strong; he reached the quarterfinals in 2023. However, Sonego has struggled to make it past the fourth round in Miami. Fritz’s current win-loss record for 2025 stands at 10-5, while Sonego’s is slightly lower at 8-7.
Sonego, known for his diverse playing style and ability to add variety to his game, is sure to pose a challenge for Fritz. His flat groundstrokes, powerful forehand, and formidable serve could potentially disrupt Fritz’s game plan. However, Fritz, a powerful baseliner with a strong serve and sharp cross-court angles, has a tendency to excel on hardcourts. His 155 aces already this season speak volumes about his service game.
Given the players’ history and current form, I predict a three-set victory for Taylor Fritz. While Sonego will undoubtedly put up a strong fight, Fritz’s hardcourt prowess and determination to rebound from recent setbacks might just give him the edge he needs to triumph. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter and a testament to the high-caliber tennis that the Miami Open consistently delivers.