Here we go again!

Rematch of Adelaide six weeks ago, where Quentin had a close call in the second set!

It’s never easy to play again against a player you recently beat in favorable conditions. That’s the case today with a Frenchman who beat an Australian who isn’t in great form but is still capable of putting in some strong performances at times. Their match in Adelaide had a higher-quality second set, which could have swung in the Australian’s favor. So, it’s not easy to face again someone who was close to pushing you into a deciding set in Adelaide, in faster conditions that suited Quentin better than those in Indian Wells. The Australian has gathered information, has evolved; he hasn’t necessarily played better, but he has gained in rhythm. I admit I’m having trouble assessing the Australian’s level, which can vary from one match to another. Quentin’s level, on the other hand, has been rather good and stable since the start of the season. He lost valuable points in Dubai and now finds himself outside the top 100. From experience, I know he usually steps on the gas to get back into the top 100 quickly, so that’s an important source of motivation to factor in for the Frenchman, who has very few points to defend in the second half of the season. If he could pick up points now, that would be very good for him, as he normally plays at a level closer to world No. 60–70 than 102. He will get his place back, and we’ll see how the odds and the market react to this current ranking. In any case, Walton can play better and might play better, or maybe not. I really struggle with him; he performs well in the underdog role against a strong opponent. Here at Indian Wells against Quentin, even if it’s a bit slower, Quentin has better movement than before. I don’t rule out a tough match, but the Frenchman should still be the favorite in this one.