T. Ichikawa comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 5. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -4.8 to 10.4, with at least one match where T. Ichikawa was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.9/10, leaving T. Ichikawa vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.

M. Imamura has been inconsistent recently, going 3–2 over the last five matches. Point statistics tell a concerning story — average DS of -3.9, meaning M. Imamura has been on the wrong side of most exchanges over five matches. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.3/10, leaving M. Imamura vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure. Good performance in key moments — break point efficiency of +15 over the last five.