The men’s quarterfinals start on Day 9 of the US Open. We get the first two of the four matches, including Novak Djokovic squaring off with American #1 Taylor Fritz. Who will advance to Friday’s semifinals? Our writers share their thoughts on both matches for you. Predicting these matches are Shane Black, Jordan Reynolds, Damian Kust, Jack Edward, and Yesh Ginsburg. What do you think will happen?
US Open Day 9 Men’s Predictions
Ben Shelton vs Frances TiafoeShane:
We are guaranteed an American in the semifinals as Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton square off in the quarters. Both men bring their best tennis on the brightest stages, setting us up for a terrific match. Shelton’s serve has touched 149 MPH this week and has been a significant weapon. However, Tiafoe has a keen ability to neutralize a big server with his return. Big Foe’s experience during tense moments will be the difference.
Prediction: Tiafoe in 4
Jordan:
Tiafoe enters the quarterfinal as favorite by experience and ranking. But this is likely to come down to a few points. Both men serve and hit really big. I am backing the upset here. Shelton looks to be playing with so much freedom right now. That may trump experience in the biggest moments.
Prediction: Shelton in 5
Damian:
This could be a good one. Shelton is shining again for the first time since the Australian Open and managed to get through Paul this time around. He’s not without a shot at Tiafoe here and the more experienced of the Americans kind of hasn’t been properly tested so far. He made the semis here last year though and just like Shelton, rises to the occasion in front of the big crowds. Let’s give a small edge to the seasoned player as the 20-year-old had his issues closing out Paul in the fourth round.
Prediction: Tiafoe in 5
Jack:
This will be an electric match. Both players will use the crowd as much as they can and will likely put on a stunning show. It’s tough to call this one—Ben Shelton will probably serve out of his mind, giving Tiafoe fleeting chances.
I think last year’s semifinalist takes those chances, however. Tiafoe isn’t here to make up the numbers. He’ll be resolutely determined to make it to the same stage as last year, if not one step further. The American’s belief is palpable.
Prediction: Tiafoe in 5
Yesh:
Tiafoe is looking to repeat his semifinal performance from last year, but he has a significant obstacle in his way. Ben Shelton is on top of the world right play, playing with extreme confidence all over the court. His serve is massive, and his game is honestly reminiscent of Andy Roddick in his prime. Tiafoe will need to take Shelton out of his comfort zone early, because if the younger American finds a rhythm it’s hard to get him out of it.
Prediction: Shelton in 5
[cta id=4014 type=cta]
Novak Djokovic vs Taylor Fritz
Shane:
jokovic holds a 7-0 head-to-head record over Fritz, though the American did have a two sets to one lead on the Serbian at the 2021 Australian Open. Fritz has yet to drop a set in New York, playing phenomenal first-strike tennis. Djokovic has had a few bumps but has raised his level when needed. I like Fritz’s serve to carry him, but still give Djokovic a massive advantage when the match gets tight.
Prediction: Djokovic in 5
Jordan:
The American #1 has managed to win just one set in his previous seven matches against Djokovic. He should take encouragement, though, from his excellent level in the first four matches, not dropping a set on his way to the quarterfinal. However, I think the conditions make it even harder for Fritz to cause a big upset against the three-time US Open champion. The courts are slightly slower than some previous years in New York, which will hinder the Fritz serve that simply has to be on fire to have a chance.
Prediction: Djokovic in 3
Damian:
Fritz’s chances wouldn’t be looking that poor here if not for the 0-7 head-to-head. In fact, he’s only ever won a set against Djokovic in one of these matches with the Serbian battling an abdominal tear at the Australian Open. Fritz has been in total business mode so far, not dropping a set and only losing his serve once. But the way Djokovic has disarmed him the last few times they play, it really makes you think he might be a bit too conventional with his baseline aggression to beat the 23-time Slam champion here.
Prediction: Djokovic in 4
Jack:
The head-to-head between Djokovic and Fritz does not make for good reading. Seven played, seven won for Djokovic. Two sets dropped, both in the same match when Djokovic was injured at the Australian Open. There was a moment at last year’s ATP Finals where Fritz played as though he belonged in the conversation with the legendary Serb. That feeling has waned this season and, truthfully, the American has had a pretty easy time getting to the quarterfinals.
The conditions will allow Fritz to test Djokovic at times. Overall though, Fritz’s lack of confidence going into this match-up and the rock-solid rally temperament of Djokovic will be a heavy catalyst.
Prediction: Djokovic in 3
Yesh:
The real problem for Fritz is that nothing in his game can really touch Djokovic. This entire match will depend on the Serbian’s level. And that’s always a bad proposition for Djokovic’s opponents.
Prediction: Djokovic in 3
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
