Semifinal action at the ATP Toronto Masters promises two entertaining matches. Ben Shelton can bridge the gap to Taylor Fritz in the race to become the U.S. men’s No. 1 as the two Americans face off. Who will make the final in Canada?
ATP Toronto Semifinal Predictions
Alexander Zverev vs Karen Khachanov
Head-to-head: Zverev 5-2 Khachanov
Before the all-American battle, top seed Alexander Zverev can win his second title in Canada. He is the only former champion still left in the draw. The German had to play some of his most clutch tennis to end Alexei Popyrin’s title defense in the quarterfinals. Reaching the final would be the bare minimum for Zverev, who took a month off after a disappointing first-round loss at Wimbledon. While Zverev has dominated Karen Khachanov in the head-to-head (5-2), he can overcomplicate things and lose all that momentum. His season has been so full of ups and downs, but patience is the rare element Zverev has shown all fortnight. It could be the difference maker.
Prediction: Zverev in 3
Taylor Fritz vs Ben Shelton
Head-to-head: Fritz 1-0 Shelton
Taylor Fritz is still ahead of Ben Shelton in the live rankings with a significant lead. And unless there is a shock turnaround of results in Cincinnati, Fritz is nailed on to secure a top-four seeding for the US Open. But Shelton can cut that lead, and with Fritz defending runner-up points in New York, his quest to become the new U.S. men’s No. 1 starts here. Shelton has improved considerably since their first meeting in Indian Wells two years ago, when he was competing in his first full season on tour. He was good enough to take a set from Fritz. What Shelton brings here is more than a big serve. The 22-year-old’s mental game has leveled up. He’s also smarter in his court positioning and shot selection. There might be a gap between them in rankings, but not so much on the court.
Prediction: Shelton in 3
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
