M. Yamaguchi has been inconsistent recently, going 3–2 over the last five matches. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -4.8 to 10.6, with at least one match where M. Yamaguchi was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.8/10, leaving M. Yamaguchi vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.

H. Kinoshita comes into this match in difficult form — 1 wins from the last 2. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -5.1 to 12.1, with at least one match where H. Kinoshita was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.8/10, leaving H. Kinoshita vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.