Taylor Fritz vs Daniel Merida Preview & Prediction | 2026 Cincinnati Open | Third Round

Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!

Taylor Fritz faces Daniel Merida at the Cincinnati Open. 

Ranking points: ATP 1000

Start date/time: 18 August 2026 at 5:30 pm

Venue: Lindner Family Tennis Center, Mason, USA

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – Tennis Channel

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Taylor Fritz vs Daniel Merida ticket information

Taylor Fritz vs Daniel Merida prediction

Taylor Fritz began his Cincinnati Open campaign with a straight sets win over Alex Michelsen. Fritz needed to save a match point against Michelsen when they faced off in the quarter-finals of the Washington Open at the end of last month, but this was far more comfortable for the 2024 US Open finalist as he won 6-3 6-4.

He will face Daniel Merida after the Spaniard continued his fine run of form with a convincing victory over Zizou Bergs. Merida saved all three break points on offer and was never behind in the match as he won 6-3 6-2 after one hour and 19 minutes. The 21-year-old reached his first Masters 1000 quarter-final in Toronto last week.

Fritz is the clear favourite, but Merida deserves respect after the level that he has shown over the last couple of weeks. This is a tough assignment for the American, but he will be difficult to stop if he continues to serve well.

Taylor Fritz vs Daniel Merida tip: Under 24.5 games