R. Hijikata has been inconsistent recently, going 3–2 over the last five matches. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -14.5 to 13.8, with at least one match where R. Hijikata was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 6.4/10, leaving R. Hijikata vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure. Break point efficiency is a red flag — R. Hijikata has been losing the important points, with a BP efficiency of -20 over recent matches.

J. Paul comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 5. Point statistics tell a concerning story — average DS of -2.2, meaning J. Paul has been on the wrong side of most exchanges over five matches. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.8/10, leaving J. Paul vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure. Break point efficiency is a red flag — J. Paul has been losing the important points, with a BP efficiency of -15 over recent matches.