Two superb ATP Dallas semifinals are scheduled for Saturday. Former US Open champion Marin Cilic’s clash with Taylor Fritz will be followed by Ben Shelton’s match against the defending champion Denis Shapovalov. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for both matches, but who will reach Sunday’s final?

ATP Dallas Semifinal Predictions
Taylor Fritz vs Marin Cilic

Head-to-head: Fritz 2-1 Cilic

37-year-old Cilic played some of his best tennis in recent years to reach this stage. The Croatian did not drop a set to defeat Learner Tien, Ethan Quinn, and Jack Pinnington Jones. Fritz worked much harder. The No. 1 seed needed a deciding set tiebreak to overcome Sebastian Korda and Marcos Giron. His other win came in two sets against Brandon Nakashima.

Fritz also fought through elbow pain in his quarterfinal with Korda. Although it does not seem like a severe, long-term problem, there is every chance he could still be feeling it against Cilic. If both men are fully fit, this battle of the big servers will likely be decided by fine margins. The uncertainty surrounding Fritz before this match makes Cilic the more likely winner.

Prediction: Cilic in 2

Ben Shelton vs Denis Shapovalov

Head-to-head: Shelton 3-0 Shapovalov

Both men recovered from losing the opening set of their quarterfinals. Shelton did it against Miomir Kecmanovic, while Shapovalov rallied impressively in his encounter with the talented Alejandro Davidovich Folina. The American’s other victories came against Gabriel Diallo and Adrian Mannarino in a three-set battle. Shapovalov’s triumphs over Rafael Jodar and Aleksandar Kovacevic were comfortable.

This matchup will probably always be best remembered for Shapovalov’s controversial default against Shelton at the 2024 Citi DC Open. The home favorite’s playing style does not suit last year’s champion. Shapovalov’s return is his weakest shot, and Shelton is among the best placed in men’s tennis to take advantage of that. The Canadian must serve well and hope he either gets chances or can edge tiebreaks. Shelton prevailing is more likely.

Prediction: Shelton in 2

Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images