Chengdu Open 2024: Kei Nishikori vs Shang Juncheng preview, head-to-head, prediction, and pick

Match Details

Fixture: (201) Kei Nishikori vs (67) Shang Juncheng

Date: 18 September 2024

Tournament: Chengdu Open 2024

Round: First Round (Round of 16)

Venue: Sichuan International Tennis Center, Chengdu, China

Category: ATP 250

Surface: Hardcourt

Prize Money: $1,171,655

Live Telecast: USA - Tennis Channel | UK - Sky Sports | Canada - DAZN | India - Tennis Channel

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Kei Nishikori vs Shang Juncheng preview

Kei Nishikori (Image via Getty)

China's Shang Juncheng will take on Japan's Kei Nishikori in the first round (Round of 32) of the Chengdu Open on September 18.

The match will be at the Sichuan International Tennis Center in Chengdu, China. This is the tournament's sixth edition, and the two highest seeds at the event are Lorenzo Musetti and Alexander Bublik.

Jungcheng was last seen at the US Open, traversing as far as the third round. Casper Ruud ended his campaign at Flushing Meadows in a thrilling five-set encounter 7-6, 6-3, 0-6, 3-6, 1-6. Meanwhile, Nishikori's last appearance came at the Challenger Genoa, IT, where he reached the quarterfinals. There, Jaume Munar defeated him in three sets, 6-2, 5-7, 6-3.

Shang's playing style is characterized by his raw power and aggressive approach, while Nishikori employs a more strategic method, focusing on hitting the ball early and maintaining a composed defense. Shang embodies the contemporary tennis athlete, demonstrating exceptional court coverage and a diverse skill set that can challenge Nishikori's strategic approach.

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Kei Nishikori vs Shang Juncheng head-to-head

Shang and Nishikori have faced off only once before their upcoming match. This previous encounter took place at the Truist Atlanta Open in Atlanta, where Nishikori secured a straight-set victory. 6-4, 7-6.

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Kei Nishikori vs Shang Juncheng odds

Players	Moneyline	Handicap	Total Games
Shang Jungcheng
Kei Nishikori

Odds will be updated once available.

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Kei Nishikori vs Shang Juncheng prediction

Shang and Nishikori have maintained a 60% win rate over the past year. It's important to note, however, that Shang has competed at a higher level, primarily on the Main Tour, while Nishikori has predominantly participated in ITF and Challenger Tournaments. Despite this difference in competition level, there isn't a significant disparity in the average ranking of their opponents. Shang has faced players ranked around 120, while Nishikori has played against opponents with an average ranking of 124.

Shang has made significant strides in his game over the past year. Seeking to level the playing field against Nishikori, he possesses a stronger defense, particularly evident in his ability to save breakpoints at a rate of 64% compared to Nishikori's 61%. Additionally, Shang's clinical approach is highlighted by his 56% win rate in deciding sets, surpassing Nishikori's 50% mark.

Pick: Shang to win in three sets.