The ATP Stuttgart Open 2026 edition is into Day 4, with the Round of 16 set to be completed. We have a great mix of top seeds, young entrants and surprising candidates still left in the mix. As ever, we preview and predict the matches for you.
ATP Stuttgart Day 4 Predictions
Rinky Hijikata vs Frances Tiafoe
Head-to-head – Hijikata 1-3 Tiafoe
Rinky Hijikata and Frances Tiafoe both had to battle through tough first-round matches in Stuttgart. Tiafoe leads the head-to-head 3–1, including two wins earlier this year, and his game is particularly effective on grass. The American’s greater power, especially from the baseline, allows him to penetrate the court more consistently. Expect Hijikata to compete hard and potentially take a set, but Tiafoe looks the safer pick to advance.
Prediction: Tiafoe in 3
Nick Kyrgios vs Sho Shimabukuro
Head-to-head – First Meeting
Nick Kyrgios looked in excellent rhythm during his opening-round win over Corentin Moutet, producing the kind of aggressive tennis that makes him so dangerous on grass. Sho Shimabukuro is a solid player, but there is a noticeable gap in firepower and ball-striking quality between the two. If Kyrgios serves and returns with the same confidence, he will be extremely difficult to contain on these fast courts. Expect the Australian to dictate play and progress comfortably.
Prediction: Kyrgios in 2
Martin Landaluce vs Taylor Fritz
Head-to-head – First Meeting
Taylor Fritz is the defending champion in Stuttgart. Returning to a place with happy memories might be just what he needs after losing in the opening round of the French Open. I do not expect him to face many issues against Landaluce. The Spaniard does not have any pedigree on grass and will likely be overwhelmed by his opponent’s power on serve and in the rallies.
Prediction: Fritz in 2
James Duckworth vs Jiri Lehecka
Head-to-head – First Meeting
James Duckworth faces a difficult challenge against Jiri Lehecka. Lehecka endured a below-par clay-court season, but the switch to grass should suit his game far better. The Czech strikes the ball cleanly off both wings and thrives on quicker surfaces where he can take time away from opponents. Duckworth is a capable grass-court player, but Lehecka possesses a higher level of baseline quality and should be able to dictate most of the rallies. Expect Lehecka to come through comfortably.
Prediction: Lehecka in 2
Ben Shelton vs Marcos Giron
Head-to-head – Shelton 2-1 Giron
Ben Shelton has to be considered one of the dark horses for Wimbledon given how well his game translates to grass. His powerful serve and willingness to attack the net make him a dangerous opponent on faster courts. He faces fellow American Marcos Giron, who is capable of matching him from the baseline for periods. However, Shelton holds a clear advantage in terms of raw power, particularly on serve. Giron is a solid competitor, but he may struggle to consistently hurt Shelton on this surface. Expect Shelton to take control of the match and progress without too many issues.
Prediction: Shelton in 2
Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
