The quarterfinals are set at ATP Tokyo, and there are four outstanding matches for fans to look forward to. Home favourite Kei Nishikori and defending champion Ben Shelton are still going strong. As always, we here at LWOT will offer our predictions for all the quarterfinal matches. But which players will advance to the semifinals?
ATP Tokyo Quarterfinal Predictions
Alex Michelsen vs Tomas Machac
Head-to-Head: Michelsen 0-1 Machac
Apart from the first set against Stefanos Tsitsipas, Michelsen has looked in great touch throughout the week. The American has been consistent all season and is in his seventh quarterfinal at the ATP level this year. Michelsen will reach a new career high in rankings on Monday. Tomas Machac is finally playing like he did at the beginning of the year. His best level is so good, and that’s what he produced against Tommy Paul in the second round. Both these players are playing well, but Machac has the slight edge.
Prediction: Machac in 3
Jack Draper vs Ugo Humbert
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Not many people can outserve Hubert Hurkacz, but Jack Draper did that in the second round. Draper is finding some consistency in his game, and the US Open run seems to have given him a great confidence boost. The quick conditions suit Draper’s big serve and forehand, but they also suit his opponent, Ugo Humbert. The Frenchman is always dangerous on fast, hard courts, and Brandon Nakashima is outplayed in every department. Humbert hit 34 winners and was untouchable behind his serve. This should be a fascinating contest and heavily dominated by both players’ serve. However, Humbert can become unplayable at times, which gives him the edge.
Prediction: Humbert in 3
Ben Shelton vs Arthur Fils
Head-to-Head: Shelton 1-0 Fils
This match has popcorn tennis written all over it as two fiery players lock horns for a place in the Japan Open semifinals. Ben Shelton has been great so far in his title defense, but this would be his toughest test. Arthur Fils won the second round due to Matteo Berrettini’s retirement, but he was still playing at a high level. Fils can beat anyone when he has a good day and will back himself from the baseline against Shelton. Both have a powerful serve and forehand, and it will come down to who can be more efficient. I will go with the Frenchman.
Prediction: Fils in 3
Kei Nishikori vs Holger Rune
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Kei Nishikori played the best match in a long time to defeat the dangerous Jordan Thompson. Nishikori was incredible in the first set and broke Thompson’s serve magnificently. It was a vintage return performance from the Japanese superstar. His serve also looks much better and if he can continue this, he has a good chance to win. Holger Rune is also finding some form this week and is the highest seed left. It was a convincing win against Yoshihito Nishioka, especially behind the serve with 11 aces. Rune can win or lose against anyone, so it’s hard to trust his level, but I have a feeling he’ll be excited to face and beat Nishikori.
Prediction: Rune in 3
Main Photo Credit: Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun/USA TODAY NETWORK
