Dallas Open Day 3 Preview: Pundits Back Davidovich Fokina, Split on Tiafoe vs. Korda

The tournament’s new ATP 500 status on a quick surface raises stakes for Americans seeking momentum.

Overview

Second‑round play features Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs. Alex Michelsen, with both preview outlets tipping the Spaniard in three sets.
Frances Tiafoe meets Sebastian Korda in a matchup drawing opposing picks, with The Grandstand favoring Tiafoe in two and Last Word selecting Korda in three.
Tommy Paul is projected to get past Jenson Brooksby, with predictions pointing to another close three‑set win.
Taylor Fritz takes on Brandon Nakashima, as previews cite Fritz’s early‑season struggles and forecast Nakashima in three sets.
Context shaping expectations includes Davidovich Fokina still chasing a first title after four finals in 2025 and Korda entering at No. 53 following injury and illness and a recent San Diego Challenger final loss to Zachary Svajda.