On Saturday, October 8, the world’s number 11 player Taylor Fritz will square off against Denis Shapovalov, who is rated 22nd, in the semifinal of the 2022 Japan Open.
It may have been a relief for Fritz when his Australian opponent withdrew from the competition before their match because he was the second-favorite coming into his quarterfinal matchup against Nick Kyrgios. As Fritz moved to the final four stage, Kyrgios’ left knee, which was an issue for him, actually helped his prospects of qualifying for the ATP Finals. The American had a difficult time winning both of his first two rounds, but he recovered from Covid just in time to face James Duckworth in the opening round here. He required three sets to defeat both Duckworth and Hiroki Moriya, and a third match in as many days might have depleted all of his stamina.
Shapovalov, a semifinalist at the Korea Open the previous week, advanced to the semifinals by winning his third straight match. This time, it was Borna Coric, who was in good shape, who took the brunt of Shapovalov’s rage. With a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Coric in one hour and 18 minutes, the Canadian player secured a spot in the final four. Shapovalov served up nine aces but squandered the opportunity to serve out the opening set at 5-3. He then broke Coric once more in the very next game to take the lead. The world number 22 played much more efficiently in the second set, dropping just three games on serve to win.
Fritz vs Shapovalov Match Details
Tournament: Japan Open
Date: October 8, 2022
Venue: Tokyo, Japan
Surface: Hard
Round: Semifinal
Category: Men’s Singles
Prize Money: $1,953,285
Fritz vs Shapovalov Head-to-Head Record
Between these two players, there have been five prior meetings, including one at the Davis Cup, and Shapovalov is now up 4-1. It’s been tied once in the past two games, both of which occurred in 2021. Hard court surfaces have been used for all of the matches.
Also read: Laver Cup 2022: Emotional Roger Federer bids adieu to a Glorious Career
Fritz vs Shapovalov Prediction
Although Fritz would appreciate the respite that day, Shapovalov is the clear favourite due to his recent hot streak. I predict he will even win this match in straight sets.
Prediction: Shapovalov to win in 3
Fritz Last three performances
- Japan Open: Quarterfinal- b. Kyrgios (Walkover)
- Japan Open: Second round- b. Moriya 6-1, 3-6, 6-4
- Japan Open: First round- b. Duckworth 6-2, 6-7(2), 6-1
Shapovalov Last three performances
- Japan Open: Quarterfinal- b. Coric 6-4, 6-3
- Japan Open: Second round- b. Noguchi 6-3, 6-1
- Japan Open: First round- b. Johnson 6-3, 7-6(3)
Broadcast and Live Stream Details
- US – Tennis Channel
- UK – Tennis TV (live streaming)
- Australia – beIN Sports
- Canada – TSN
- India – Discovery/ Tennis TV
Also read: 5 Players to look out for in Davis Cup 2022
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