Acapulco Semi-Final Previews & Predictions: Shapovalov vs. Davidovich Fokina, Machac vs. Nakashima
The 2025 Abierto Mexicano Telcel has reached the semi-finals, where Denis Shapovalov, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Tomas Machac, and Brandon Nakashima will battle for a place in the championship match.
(9) Denis Shapovalov vs. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
Head-to-Head: Shapovalov leads 1-0
Denis Shapovalov is in the best form of his career, riding an eight-match winning streak that includes a title in Dallas. The Canadian has looked dominant in Acapulco, securing straight-set victories over Nishesh Basavareddy, Alex Michelsen, and Marcos Giron.
On the other hand, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina has taken a tougher road to the semi-finals. The Spaniard survived four match points in the first round against Mattia Bellucci before edging Frances Tiafoe in three sets and defeating Rodrigo Pacheco Mendez in straight sets. After squandering two championship points in Delray Beach, he will be eager to make a deep run here.
🔮 Prediction: Shapovalov in two sets – His aggressive shot-making and confidence make him the favorite.
(8) Tomas Machac vs. Brandon Nakashima
Head-to-Head: First meeting
Tomas Machac has been one of the most consistent performers in Acapulco, winning 10 matches in 2025 so far. The 25th-ranked Czech has beaten Jakub Mensik, Daniel Altmaier, and Learner Tien, dropping only one set along the way.
Brandon Nakashima’s path to the semi-finals has been less challenging, with wins over Benjamin Bonzi, David Goffin, and a first-set retirement from Holger Rune. However, he now faces his biggest test of the tournament against an in-form Machac.
🔮 Prediction: Machac in three sets – Nakashima will put up a fight, but Machac’s consistency and recent form give him the edge.
Who Will Reach the Final?
With Shapovalov and Machac playing the best tennis of the tournament, they are the favorites to meet in the championship match. However, Davidovich Fokina and Nakashima have the talent to pull off an upset if they can raise their level.
🎾 Projected Final: Shapovalov vs. Machac
