Y. Shimizu has been inconsistent recently, going 3–2 over the last five matches. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -23.5 to 61.9, with at least one match where Y. Shimizu was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 6.3/10, leaving Y. Shimizu vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure. Break point efficiency is a red flag — Y. Shimizu has been losing the important points, with a BP efficiency of -20 over recent matches.

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.