R. Taguchi comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 5. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -8.8 to 14.9, with at least one match where R. Taguchi was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 6.3/10, leaving R. Taguchi vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure. Break point efficiency is a red flag — R. Taguchi has been losing the important points, with a BP efficiency of -22 over recent matches.

S. Fukuda comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 4. Point margins have been modest — DS averaging +7.8. Wins have been functional rather than dominant. Serve quality has been average (6.5/10) — neither a weapon nor a significant liability. Break point efficiency is a red flag — S. Fukuda has been losing the important points, with a BP efficiency of -18 over recent matches.