Lately, in men's Tennis sphere, it has been a strange wind blowing around especially with Roger Federer's outrageous tennis approach. The Swiss star is climbing the mountain again, and to have him in the top 3 or even higher seems now only a matter of time. By grabbing his 5th Indian Wells title last week, he promoted himself as a challenger for all the upcoming events where he'll be competing. In Miami, despite some rain delays and a gusty weather display, Federer managed to keep his winning streak intact, in a safe and dry environment. His next test could've been more suitable for some higher stages match-up but his opponent's ranking wouldn't allow it.
Del Potro remains a constant danger floating around with his low-ranking status
The 28-year-old Argentine is still working on his comeback to the top. Having a fruitful season back in 2016, he is now adjusting his day-to-day approach. Despite being inside the top 40, he already bumped into Djokovic twice in less than a month. Now, he is set to face Roger Federer (6 ATP) one of his longtime rivals. Their last meeting goes a few years back occurring in London's Round Robin at the ATP Finals. That particular episode went on Roger Federer's pocket at the end of a 3 sets edgy battle. Overall, they have 20 direct matches under their belt having Roger Federer as the leading guy with 15 successes over the Argentine rival.
The stakes are high for both
Whoever wins this next match-up will receive a fair intake of momentum. On their side of the draw, the possible route towards is rather accessible. With Sam Querrey or Roberto Bautista-Agut as the next possible opponent, both Federer and del Potro will see their chances soaring in Miami. Federer's last title in Miami goes way back in time having the season of 2006 as a reference.
On the other side, del Potro's biggest achievement at Crandon Park in Miami was a semifinal which he lost to Andy Murray. The semis might bring something stronger like Stan Wawrinka, David Goffin or Nick Kyrgios.On the bottom half of the draw, Nadal and Nishikori are breezing through the enemies' lines. Last year, Federer was about to play del Potro in Miami but was forced to withdrew due to a stomach virus.