Y. Shimizu shows a 4–1 form record, though the level of opposition has been mixed — average ranking of opponents is 408. Point margins have been modest — DS averaging +6.1. Wins have been functional rather than dominant. Serve quality has been average (6.5/10) — neither a weapon nor a significant liability. Good performance in key moments — break point efficiency of +11 over the last five.

Y. Kusuhara comes into this match in difficult form — 0 wins from the last 5. Point statistics tell a concerning story — average DS of -16.2, meaning Y. Kusuhara has been on the wrong side of most exchanges over five matches. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.6/10, leaving Y. Kusuhara vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure. Break point efficiency is a red flag — Y. Kusuhara has been losing the important points, with a BP efficiency of -28 over recent matches.