Denis Shapovalov will look to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal for the first time in his career when he faces David Goffin in the fourth round of the US Open.
The Canadian has had to battle to get into the Round of 16, first overcoming American wild card Sebastian Korda in four sets, claiming another four-seat victory against Soon-woo Kwon in Round two before a five-set triumph over 19th seed Taylor Fritz in the third round.
Goffin knocked out Reilly Opelka in a high-profile first round match in four sets, took care of Lloyd Harris in four sets in round two and was very impressive in dismissing 26th seed Filip Krajinovic in straight sets in the third round.
The only prior meeting occurred last year in Tokyo with Goffin defeating Shapovalov in the second round 7-6 (5), 7-6 (2).
The match will start at 7:00 Eastern time and lead off the night session on Arthur Ashe Stadium. The winner of this match will advance to the quarterfinals in Flushing Meadows for the first time against either top seed Novak Djokovic or 20th seed Pablo Carreno Busta.
Analysis
In a matchup of such contrasting styles, the player who takes control of the baseline will be able to dictate how this match goes. Shapovalov is a power player. He'll want to keep the rallies short and use his backhand (a rarity for a player who has lot of pace) to bully Goffin all over the court.
The Belgian is a fantastic baseliner and has a world-class backhand of his own. He's also very tough and has been in matches like these plenty of times before. If there's one real weakness he has, it's the second serve. The Canadian will look to/want to step in and punish the soft second deliveries that Goffin throws in.
Patience will also be a factor as Shapovalov has a habit of overhitting in the big moments. Goffin will want to play long rallies and test the 12th seed to see if he can draw errors by being patient and steady. The Canadian will need to play smart and pull the trigger at the right moments.
Being a left-hander could also play into Shapovalov's hands. If he can get good direction and angles on his serve, then he should win a lot of free points. It will be up to Goffin to read the serve well and put pressure on by making a lot of returns.
Assessment
This will be fascinating to watch as Goffin goes in as the favorite, but Shapovalov is definitely capable of winning if he just plays with control and imposes his game on the Belgian. The slightly slower court at Ashe will help the seventh seed and in a match that will have plenty of intrigue, look for Goffin to move on.
Prediction: David Goffin in four sets