Indian Wells ATP 1000 - 4th day
07/03/24
Mochizuki S. vs Vukic A.
Mochizuki, a player emerging from the qualifiers, showcased a diverse game that suits the surface perfectly, making few errors and displaying great confidence. He maximized the opportunities granted by his opponents. Vukic, undoubtedly a stronger player, is currently struggling and lacks confidence, especially due to poor results. He has only secured two victories so far this season, against opponents of much lower rankings. As we know, confidence and mental aspect play crucial roles in this sport. Could today be his chance for redemption? I believe both players will win at least one set.
Mensik J. vs Hong S.C.
This match seems one-sided to me. Mensik is demonstrating a significantly higher level of play compared to his ranking (81), and despite his young age (born in 2005), he shows immediate learning from his mistakes and manages pressure well. On the other hand, Hong, coming from the qualifiers, won mainly due to the shortcomings of his opponent, lacking in power and effectiveness in his shots, especially from the baseline. Against an opponent who applies pressure whenever possible, I foresee see one outcome...defeat.
Safiullin R. vs Evans D.
Safiullin is a very formidable and solid baseline player with excellent shot power. He tends to open up the court with his serve and finish with the following shot. It's worth noting that the Russian has suffered seven consecutive defeats and hasn't won since the second round of Brisbane under very different circumstances. Evans, on the other hand, is rediscovering his tennis at the age of 35, being a very experienced player who can vary his shots and adapt to almost any opponent, as well as capitalize on every slightest opportunity. Their last encounter in Los Cabos favored Evans. However, Safiullin is a tricky opponent, and I believe he will seek redemption today. I anticipate a thrilling match. Perhaps even a third set?
Michelsen A vs Munar J.
Michelsen has been showing consistent improvement, coming off excellent matches and results in the Indian Wells preparation tournaments. Being a home player, he thrives on the support of the crowd, and the surface enhances his American style of play, characterized by excellent shot variety, especially from the baseline and on serve. In contrast, Munar, hailing from the Nadal school, shouldn't be underestimated, but he's endured immense struggles in the Santiago clay tournament. He might benefit slightly from the match's timing, but I don't see much competition. I predict a straightforward 2-0 victory for the American, who must maintain concentration.
Seyboth Wild T. vs Wolf J.J.
Seyboth Wild comes from the qualifiers, where I had the chance to admire him. I must admit that he only lacks consistency so far because he's proven capable of challenging everyone, with a very interesting serve and forehand. Now that he's in form, he could win this match. On the other hand, J.J. Wolf has been inactive since the Australian Open, without any particular reason. Could he have chosen to stay home to prepare for this tournament? He will definitely struggle with the match rhythm given his month and a half of absence, but he's a very emotional player who thrives on crowd support and heats up as the match progresses, as he himself stated. I anticipate an uncertain outcome from a fiercely contested match, although it will largely depend on Seyboth.
Grenier H. vs Muller A.
A French derby between two players with very similar tennis styles, both going through a rather inconsistent period (especially Muller). I think this match could be highly contested, but Grenier, coming from the qualifiers, has more confidence on the surface. Could he win the first set and then be caught up? It's a possibility. Their last encounter at the Australian Open ended with a 3-2 victory for Grenier. Muller will surely seek revenge.