M. Kukushkin comes into this match in difficult form — 1 wins from the last 5. Point statistics tell a concerning story — average DS of -6.9, meaning M. Kukushkin has been on the wrong side of most exchanges over five matches. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.9/10, leaving M. Kukushkin vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.

R. Carballes Baena has been inconsistent recently, going 3–2 over the last five matches. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -16.4 to 28.7, with at least one match where R. Carballes Baena was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 6.1/10, leaving R. Carballes Baena vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.