Alex Michelsen, Laver Cup Champion

Could these few days have done him some good to finish the season strong?

Michelsen had his breakout year on the ATP tour last year. Like many other young players, he seems to be experiencing the "sophomore slump" that often occurs the following year. I don't want to overanalyze his last two losses, at the Laver Cup (slow) and at the US Open against Comesana (a Counterpuncher, a tough matchup). But yes, he's had quite many bad matches! Quinn is having his breakthrough year right now and has been really good for most of the season, but I'm beginning to feel like it might be hard for him to maintain the same results he's had so far this year. I've started to notice his flaws more and more lately, particularly in his movement and defense, as well as his lack of problem-solving skills. In addition, it's beginning to show in his mood and energy on the court; there's a lot of shrugging and annoyed parts of Quinn lately! Luckily for him, he gets to face a Michelsen who is not exactly beaming with confidence now either - what gives?

At first glance, Quinn looks like a tempting choice here. He's already played three matches here in Asia and came through the qualifiers here. He has a powerful serve and forehand that can do damage on these courts. I really do like Michelsen's profile for these kinds of courts; he is at his best when he can play aggressive tennis on fast/slick courts. Despite his flaws, I find him more "complete" than Quinn and that he can match him in aggression and excel a bit more in some other areas. I want to say it might end up a bit similar to how Giron vs Quinn played out in Chengdu...