The “Sunshine Double” has always been the most visually arresting stretch of the professional tennis calendar. Between the desert heat of California and the humidity of Florida, the tour delivers a specific brand of high-stakes creativity that transcends the scoreline. This March, the spectacle reached a fever pitch, leaving fans and analysts to debate which single moment of brilliance defined the month.
The ATP Tour has now opened the window for fans to decide the ATP Tour Hot Shot of the Month for March, presented by Yokohama. The shortlist features a diverse array of talent, ranging from the surgical precision of the world’s top-ranked player to the improvisational flair of the tour’s most unpredictable personalities.
From daring around-the-net-post winners to a masterclass in defensive lobs, the candidates represent the pinnacle of athletic ingenuity. The voting process is currently live, giving the global tennis community the opportunity to crown the winner of a month defined by some of the most audacious shot-making seen in the 2026 season.
The Desert Magic of Indian Wells
The first half of the Sunshine Double, the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, provided two of the most striking entries in this month’s competition. Even as the singles draw often captures the headlines, doubles specialist Lucas Miedler stole the spotlight with a rare display of geometry. Miedler managed to execute around-the-net-post winners in consecutive matches, a feat that requires a perfect blend of timing and audacity, effectively turning the net into a tool rather than an obstacle.
The singles competition in California was equally electric, particularly during the semi-finals. In a clash of styles and intensity, Daniil Medvedev produced a moment of defensive brilliance. Facing the relentless pressure of Carlos Alcaraz, Medvedev fired a running backhand that bypassed Alcaraz entirely, a shot that exemplified the Russian’s ability to turn a desperate defensive position into an offensive weapon.
Creativity and Control in Miami
As the tour shifted to the Miami Open presented by Itau, the flair continued. Alexander Bublik, known throughout the circuit for his unconventional approach and willingness to gamble on the court, delivered a sequence that felt more like an exhibition than a professional match. Bublik combined a “tweener”—hitting the ball between his legs—with a seamless forehand transition to outmaneuver Matteo Berrettini.
However, the most technically refined moment of the month may have come from the top of the mountain. Carlos Alcaraz, currently the No. 1 player in the PIF ATP Rankings, showcased why he holds the mantle of the world’s best. During his encounter with Sebastian Korda, Alcaraz executed a lob of such precision and height that it became one of the standout tactical shots of the 2026 season, leaving his opponent stranded.
March Candidates at a Glance
| Player | Tournament | Shot Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lucas Miedler | Indian Wells | Around-the-net-post winners |
| Daniil Medvedev | Indian Wells | Running backhand winner |
| Alexander Bublik | Miami Open | Tweener-forehand combination |
| Carlos Alcaraz | Miami Open | Precision tactical lob |
How to Cast Your Vote
The determination of the winner rests entirely with the fans. To participate, supporters must view the highlight reel of the four candidates and select their favorite via the official voting portal. This monthly tradition not only celebrates the athletes’ skills but likewise highlights the evolving nature of the game, where the line between strategy and showmanship continues to blur.
The window for participation is brief. Voting for the ATP Tour Hot Shot of the Month will remain open until 12 p.m. EDT (6 p.m. CEST) on Tuesday, 14 April. Once the deadline passes, the tally will be finalized, and the winner will be announced across the tour’s digital platforms.
For those looking to weigh in, the official voting can be accessed through the ATP Tour voting page.
With the Sunshine Double now concluded, the tour moves toward the clay-court season, where the surfaces change but the demand for spectacular shot-making remains. The announcement of March’s winner will serve as the final punctuation mark on a month of extraordinary tennis before the circuit heads into the next phase of the year.
Who do you think deserves the title for March? Share your pick in the comments and let us know which shot left you the most impressed.
