Thursday was a day of upsets at the National Bank Open, as three of the top 10 seeded players bowed out of the competition. The draw opens up heavily for the defending champion, Jannik Sinner, who will play to secure his place in the quarterfinals. As always, we here at LWOT will offer our predictions for every match on the slate for Day 4. But who will advance?
ATP Montreal Day 4 Predictions
Kei Nishikori vs Nuno Borges
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Kei Nishikori is having a resurgence week as he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas to get his first top-20 win since 2021. Nishikori was aggressive right from the start and peppered Tsitsipas’ backhand. He faced trouble closing out the first set, but he wouldn’t mind as long as he put himself in those positions. Nuno Borges got a massive win against Ugo Humbert in the second round. Following his setback in the Paris Olympics, he has gotten off to a fantastic start on the hard courts. Borges is in good form and will look to extend this run. Nishikori has certainly shown glimpses of his best tennis, but Borges is too solid.
Prediction: Borges in 3
Andrey Rublev vs Brandon Nakashima
Head-to-Head: Rublev 1-1 Nakashima
Andrey Rublev was in a spot of bother in the first set against Etcheverry but turned it around impressively. He played much better tennis in the second set and went for his shots more. His return of serve was back, and he converted all his break points. This was Rublev’s first win at the National Bank Open since 2021. Brandon Nakashima got a fantastic win over Tommy Paul. He is dangerous on every surface, but especially when the balls are flying around as he gets the maximum out of his serve. He did not get broken against Paul. The last time Nakashima played Rublev, he got his first top-10 win on clay. However, Rublev looks in a much better place currently and should get the win.
Prediction: Rublev in 3
Jannik Sinner vs Alejandro Tabilo
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Jannik Sinner started his title defense of the National Bank Open solidly. He was clinical behind his strokes and tried to play with more variations. His serve is a big weapon on these courts; he would like to get more first serves in, though. With Daniil Medvedev out, Sinner has a great chance to defend his title here. Alejandro Tabilo has made the best possible debut at ATP Montreal, as he is yet to drop a set in two matches. Tabilo was born in Canada, which makes it even more special for him. He has a hard-court title this year and will pose a threat to Sinner if the Italian is off his game. However, Sinner is more experienced and has a level or two in reserve if needed.
Prediction: Sinner in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke – USA TODAY Sports
