Roland Garros - Day 8

Purcell M. vs. Squire H.
Purcell prefers fast surfaces where he can employ a serve & volley strategy, which is his main reliable playing style. He occasionally uses a backhand slice but is very error-prone from the baseline with both strokes. In contrast, Squire is also a powerful player who can stabilize well on the court and then unleash his powerful forehand. Although Squire has barely played in the ATP circuit and mostly competes in Challengers, his variety of shots gives him an advantage over Purcell on these courts.

Ruusuvuori E. vs. Kwon S.

Both players prefer hard courts but can adapt well to the clay in Paris, utilizing their forehands and drop shots effectively. Ruusuvuori has been struggling with his form recently, making uncharacteristic unforced errors. Kwon, after a long absence due to military service and injury, is an unknown factor physically. Despite this, the match could be competitive with each player likely winning a set, possibly ending with a comeback from Ruusuvuori.

Shelton B. vs. Gaston H.

This match features two contrasting styles. Shelton prefers fast courts where he can use his powerful serve and forehand to dominate, while Gaston, playing at home, is more consistent and rarely makes errors. Although Shelton might struggle initially on the slow surface, Gaston's consistency and home advantage might allow him to take at least one set. Ultimately, the match is uncertain, but Shelton is likely to prevail in the end.

Shevchenko A. vs. Karatsev A.

Both players have similar playing styles and characteristics, with good serves that allow them to control the game and shorten rallies. However, Karatsev has been absent from high-level play for a couple of months, and his match rhythm might be problematic. Shevchenko, on the other hand, has been winning matches recently and has made a mental step forward. Shevchenko is favored, but both players are likely to win a set.

Van Asche L. vs. Shapovalov D.

This match features two players with contrasting styles. Van Asche prefers long rallies with varied shots, especially using his backhand to hit more winners than unforced errors. Shapovalov, though also having a strong backhand, struggles on slower courts where his serve is less effective. Despite playing at home, Van Asche's current level of tennis is lower than Shapovalov's, but Shapovalov often defeats himself with errors. This match could be balanced and potentially go to five sets.

Carballes Baena R. vs. Lestienne C.

Both players have similar playing styles, focusing on rhythm and forcing errors rather than power. The Spaniard, Carballes Baena, is not as consistent as he used to be, offering more errors for his opponent to exploit. Lestienne, playing at home and being left-handed, has an advantage in targeting Carballes Baena's erratic backhand. The match could be competitive, but Carballes Baena is likely to win in the end.

Hijikata R. vs. Darderi L.

Hijikata excels on faster courts where he can move his opponent effectively with his serve and forehand, often finishing points at the net. Darderi, however, has shown good form recently, especially in Rome, where he managed to chase down balls and hit on the run. This match might not be very competitive, with the Italian likely to dominate from the start, pushing the Australian away from the court and attacking his returns.

Rinderknech A. vs. Walton A.

Both players rely heavily on their serves to win points quickly, aiming for forehand winners. For the Frenchman, it is crucial to dominate from the start to avoid complicated situations. Walton, on the other hand, struggles on clay, finding it difficult to move and hit accurately while on the run. The match's outcome will depend significantly on Rinderknech's serve, who will try to command the points. However, Walton could steal a set if he plays freely.

Vacherot V. vs. Davidovich Fokina A.

Vacherot is tall but atypical in that he isn't very powerful yet moves well on the court. He likes to take risks on his serve to open up the court and finish with his forehand, often taking an advanced position on return to control the game. Davidovich Fokina, with a proactive and spectacular game, is currently struggling mentally. Although he might have some difficulty, the Spaniard is likely to win eventually.

Zeppieri G. vs. Mannarino A.

Zeppieri plays well on these courts and comfortably passed the qualifiers. Despite some physical issues and signs of fatigue, he is favored to win. Mannarino, who dislikes the clay season, could pose a challenge due to Zeppieri's weaknesses in his backhand. Despite this, Zeppieri is expected to win, although he might lose a set.