Nakashima already ultra-favorite 🤔

And yes, I don't know about you, but when I watch this match the first thing that shocks me is seeing Nakashima so low. Let's break this down a little...

The American has fought hard in Challenger in recent months to return to the level he had and thus be able to participate directly again in the main draws of big tournaments. It's now a done deal, and it's never easy to start from the bottom, it proves a certain mental strength. Regarding his level of play, it's true that he has improved a lot recently. He still serves quite well and has a little more trouble hitting back, which often results in tight matches in numerical terms. Beyond that, it’s true that he is full of confidence at the moment. He won a lot of matches and that counts. Against Mmoh in the first qualifying round, he didn't get excited and seized the opportunity when it came. On the Tabilo side, we are also in good shape. The guy started the season with a win in Auckland already, then had a few good games after that. He is capable of great things on hard even if it is not his favorite surface. His Miami of 2023 is quite encouraging, just like Tabilo 2024. We'll look at the odds but the ability of everyone to maintain their service games added to the fact that they play at a fairly similar level on hard = it stinks ovary! (or this sweater if you prefer).