Mon Mar 24 19:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Miami Open Preview: Sabalenka Favored, But Upsets Possible

**Miami, FL** – The Miami Open is heating up, and tennis analysts are already predicting key matchups. Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s number one, is heavily favored against Madison Collins, boasting a perfect 6-0 head-to-head record. While Collins is the defending champion and has shown flashes of brilliance against Sabalenka in the past (winning a set in half their encounters), Sabalenka’s superior form (19-4 record this year compared to Collins’ 5-3) and consistent power game make her the likely victor.

In another anticipated clash, Taylor Fritz will face Denis Shapovalov. Their rivalry has seen a shift in momentum. While Shapovalov initially dominated, Fritz has recently gained the upper hand, including a victory in Miami last year. However, Shapovalov’s recent resurgence, culminating in a 500-level title win in Dallas after defeating Fritz, adds intrigue. Despite Fritz’s superior consistency, Shapovalov’s improved confidence and powerful game makes this match a close call. Analysts predict a Fritz win, but a Shapovalov upset is not out of the question.

Finally, Frances Tiafoe and Arthur Fils will meet for the first time. Both players, ranked 17th and 18th respectively, are experiencing inconsistent starts to the year. While Fils showed promise with a quarterfinal appearance in Indian Wells, and Tiafoe demonstrated improvement in his opening round match, neither player has shown consistent form. Despite this, Tiafoe’s experience and recent near-final run at the US Open gives him a slight edge in this highly anticipated match.

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