Kecmanovic Favored Over Altmaier in Indian Wells Opener

Serbian player Miomir Kecmanovic is the betting favorite to defeat German Daniel Altmaier in their first-round matchup at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Daniel Altmaier and Miomir Kecmanovic will face off in the first round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells on Wednesday, March 4th. Kecmanovic, ranked 58th in the world, is the betting favorite to defeat the 55th-ranked Altmaier in this matchup. The two players have met three times previously, with Kecmanovic holding a 2-1 head-to-head advantage, though they split their two hard court meetings.

Why it matters

This early-round matchup between two rising players in the men's tennis ranks will provide an intriguing test for both competitors as they look to make a deep run at the prestigious Indian Wells tournament. The outcome could impact their seeding and momentum heading into the later rounds.

The details

Kecmanovic comes into the match with a 6-7 record in 2026, including a semifinal appearance in Acapulco last month. Altmaier, meanwhile, has struggled to a 0-6 start to the year and is looking to turn things around in Indian Wells after a first-round exit in Acapulco. The head-to-head favors Kecmanovic 2-1, though Altmaier won their most recent matchup in Acapulco last year.

  • The match is scheduled for Wednesday, March 4th at 12:00 pm local time on Stadium Court 7.

The players

Miomir Kecmanovic

A 58th-ranked Serbian player who reached the quarterfinals at Indian Wells in 2019 and 2022.

Daniel Altmaier

A 55th-ranked German player who is looking to turn around a 0-6 start to the 2026 season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This first-round matchup between Kecmanovic and Altmaier will be an early test for both players as they look to make a deep run at the prestigious Indian Wells tournament. With Kecmanovic holding the betting edge and a slight head-to-head advantage, the Serbian will be looking to capitalize on his recent form to advance, while Altmaier will aim to turn around his slow start to the season.