All eight of the ATP Houston quarterfinalists are Americans. Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, and Christopher Eubanks are among the men who are scheduled to compete. As always, we here at LWOT predict all the action, but which players do you think will reach the semifinals?
ATP Houston Quarterfinal Predictions
Jenson Brooksby vs Aleksandar Kovacevic
Head-to-head: Brooksby 1-0 Kovacevic
Although both players are incredibly talented, each will rightly view this as an excellent opportunity to reach an ATP semifinal. Kovacevic’s one-handed backhand, usually his weakness, has held up impressively on the clay in Houston. Not relying so much on his forehand could prove pivotal in this matchup. Brooksby finding form again after a challenging few years has been nice to see, but Kovacevic is predicted to defeat him narrowly.
Prediction: Kovacevic in 3
Tommy Paul vs Colton Smith
Head-to-head: First meeting
Paul’s ranking and much greater CV make him the favorite to beat Smith on any surface. However, clay is the 2023 Australian Open semifinalist’s weakest surface by far, and he barely scraped past Cristian Garin in the last round in a deciding set tiebreak. By contrast, Smith has won four matches since qualifying in straight sets. Smith is playing without fear, and an upset is not unrealistic in this matchup.
Prediction: Smith in 3
Christopher Eubanks vs Brandon Nakashima
Head-to-head: Nakashima 2-1 Eubanks
This will probably come down to a few points. Eubanks’ serve is his most significant weapon, and Nakashima’s is among the most underrated on the ATP Tour. On clay, I like Nakahshima’s chances of creating opportunities on return and implementing his more complete style of tennis better. The young American will prevail in two close sets.
Prediction: Nakashima in 2
Frances Tiafoe vs Alex Michelsen
Head-to-head: Tiafoe 1-0 Michelsen
Although he showed impressive resilience, Michelsen undoubtedly needs to play much better than in the previous round against Adrian Mannarino to beat Tiafoe. Michelsen’s movement has improved, but it still a weakness for him on clay. If Tiafoe can get enough serves into play, he possesses the ability to open up the court and expose the 20-year-old’s lack of athleticism on the dirt by playing smart tennis.
Prediction: Tiafoe in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane – USA TODAY Sports
