The stage is set for an entertaining day of quarterfinal action at the Australian Open with four intriguing matches on the slate at Melbourne Park. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match \u2013 including all the action in the women\u2019s singles draw \u2013 but who will secure their spot in the last four?<\/p>\n
Jim: Lorenzo Sonego has this sort of fortnight in him and when he is in form he can be a hard opponent to put away. Equally, however, he has a relatively kind draw so far in Melbourne and is yet to come up against an opponent of Ben Shelton\u2019s quality. There are still plenty of areas for improvement in Shelton\u2019s game, but his thunderous serve and forehand make him a real threat (particularly over five sets) and he should have too much for Sonego.<\/p>\n
Prediction: Shelton in 4<\/em><\/p>\n Ateet: Shelton has shown a lot of maturity at this year\u2019s Australian Open and his serve and forehand were too good for Gael Monfils, who had to retire in the fourth set. Sonego is into his first ever Grand Slam quarterfinal and is in great rhythm on his serve. I expect a very close match and the player who keeps his composure and level will win. I am going with Shelton.<\/p>\n Prediction: Shelton in 5<\/em><\/p>\n Jordan: Sonego has been rock solid so far, but this might be a bad matchup for him. He thrives most when he gets into the rallies, something Shelton\u2019s powerful serve might not allow. I have a feeling the American will win this in three sets without being broken.<\/p>\n Prediction: Shelton in 3<\/em><\/p>\n Andreas: This is a big opportunity for either player. Sonego will be playing in his first ever Grand Slam quarterfinal, whilst Shelton can make a second Grand Slam semifinal by winning this. The American plays flashier tennis than Sonego \u2014 and in truth, on a good day, he does everything a bit better than the Italian.<\/p>\n But he can be vulnerable to errors on a poor day, and Sonego is ruthless with his groundstrokes when playing well. Notably, Shelton hit 51 winners in his fourth round match, while Sonego hit 58 winners at the same stage. The American should be the favorite, but it\u2019ll be a great match.<\/p>\n Prediction: Shelton in 4<\/em><\/p>\n Yesh: Shelton is looking for his second Major semifinal, and he’s been gifted an amazing draw to do it with. Sonego looks solid but not amazing this tournament, and I’m not sure he’ll have any answers to Shelton’s serve and forehand combo. As long as the American doesn’t get tight (it’s happened in high-pressure situations before), he should have the advantages.<\/p>\n Prediction: Shelton in 4
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