Five Things to Watch Wednesday: Federer, Delpo On Collision Course?

Roger That

Continuing his quest for a record sixth BNP Paribas Open title, defending champ and world No. 1 Roger Federer faces Frenchman Jeremy Chardy in Stadium 1, a quarterfinal berth on the line. The Swiss is 3-1 lifetime against the crafty veteran Chardy, but the two haven’t squared off in three years.

The Tower of Tandil

6-foot-6 Juan Martin Del Potro (No. 6), the highest remaining seed in the BNP Paribas Open men’s draw behind Roger Federer, is eyeing a return to the final at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the first time in half a decade. To get there, he’ll first have to get past Davis Cup teammate and good pal Leonardo Mayer in the Round of 16. The all-Argentinian battle is scheduled as the fourth match of the day on Stadium 1.

Simona’s Quest

It’s been three years since world No. 1 Simona last raised the trophy in Indian Wells. That’s when she held off Serena Williams in a tight 6-4, 6-4 final. She’s playing with championship form again in 2018, and will meet Petra Martic in the semis on Wednesday. “She’s serving strong and the kick is going to be tough,” said Halep of the Croat. “Also, she has a big forehand, she’s coming to the net. So I know a little bit about how she’s playing, but I will focus on myself like always.”

The Future Is Now

Kicking off the action in Stadium 1 on Wednesday morning (11 a.m.) will be an intriguing matchup between two of the sport’s most exciting young performers. American Taylor Fritz, a native Californian, is making his first trip to the fourth round of an ATP World Tour Masters 1000 event after outlasting Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco in a third-set tiebreak. But the 20-year-old will have his hands full against 21-year-old Borna Coric. The Croat has surrendered just nine games over three rounds, and has pegged two 6-Love sets on his opponents.

Audi Day

Audi Day at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden means a gate giveaway. Arrive early for your complimentary Audi sunscreen to stay protected during another beautiful day of action in Tennis Paradise. And don’t forget to stop by the Audi display near the Circle of Palms for some ping pong. You might just have a chance to play a point against a WTA or ATP star.