ATP Shanghai Day 8 predictions, including Sinner vs. Shelton

The entire fourth round of the 2024 Rolex Shanghai Masters will be played on Wednesday, so the schedule is packed with great matches up and down. World number 1 Jannik Sinner takes on Ben Shelton, while his Beijing conqueror Carlos Alcaraz seeks revenge for Cincinnati's loss to Gael Monfils. Who do you think will prevail at the ATP Shanghai?

ATP Shanghai Day 8 Predictions

Tommy Paul vs. Tomas Machac

Head-to-head: Machac 1-0

Tomas Machac defeated Tommy Paul in Tokyo a little over a week ago, showing his best tennis with a 3-0 defeat in the deciding set. The backhand down the line was incredible and he came back much more aggressively than in the early stages. Now both players have already survived thrillers in Shanghai, especially Paul, who saved five match points against Alejandro Tabilo. Things should remain similar to the Tokyo clash. The American is much more consistent, but doesn't have the disruptive skills to help himself when Machac starts shooting.
Prediction: Machac in 3rd

David Goffin vs Alexander Zverev

Head-to-head: 4-4

That crazy game against Tallon Griekspoor must have cost Alexander Zverev a lot of energy. He got into a long argument with the referee and converted his 8th match point. That could be a problem, especially as the German recently came down with pneumonia and is still struggling with his fitness. But the good news for him is that David Goffin appears to be a lucky draw. Before the Belgian entered his post-prime phase, they played closely against each other. Now he's not such a threat anymore.
Prediction: Zverev in 2

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Carlos Alcaraz vs. Gael Monfils

Head-to-head: Alcaraz 2-1

Carlos Alcaraz lost to Gael Monfils in Cincinnati this year as he struggled with the fast conditions and a lack of motivation that was even more evident at the US Open. But the Spaniard is back and has rebuilt his confidence and passion in recent team competitions, winning in Beijing after the best game of the season. He should now be able to go into this game with a completely different mindset and in recent weeks he has been destroying the ball with his forehand.
Prediction: Alcaraz in 2

Jannik Sinner vs. Ben Shelton

Head-to-head: Sinners 3-1

Ben Shelton defeated Jannik Sinner in Shanghai a year ago, but has lost to the world No. 1 three times since then. Nevertheless, the American loves big games and often increases his level against the top. When they played at Wimbledon, he almost won a set despite being completely exhausted after three five-set games in a row. He can definitely stay close as not even Sinner will be able to gain an advantage against his narrow margin offensive style of play. If he makes it that close, it's not impossible for him to win it.
Prediction: Sinners in 3

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