On Shapo wheels

Shapo is back, friends! Author of a complete match against Hugo yesterday, he recorded his first victory on the circuit since his knee injury and his retirement in July 2023.

Hugo Gaston did not have such a bad match in terms of content, but when the power of Shapo indoors (services at 237 km/h) mixes with regularity and a good hand in the short game, it hurts.

Against Bublik, he has already struggled and lost twice in as many matches, although he was the big favorite each time.

I watched their match in similar conditions in Marseille in 2020. It was Shapo who led the rally more often, but Bublik was smarter in his defense, making it very complicatedthe conclusion of the points by a Shapo who lacked touch and lucidity.

However, and you all know it,the level of Bublik depends greatly on the desire of the day. In their match in Marseille, I never saw such a motivated Bublik (the guy was running everywhere like a little rabbit!). But in indoor conditions, in a tournament that he appreciates (he won it in 2022 by beating Zverev in the final) and especially after a mixed Australian journey, we can expect good Bublik I think.

We could thereforehave a good battle. Victory will obviously depend on the quality of their service, the motivation of Kazak and the lucidity of Shapo in the finish and the important points.