Frances Tiafoe’s bid to defend significant points and protect his top-20 ranking during the US Open swing suffered a setback when he retired in the round of 16 at the Cincinnati Masters, where he was defending runner-up points. Since then, his form has collapsed, losing four of his next six matches, including a three-set first-round defeat to Marton Fucsovics in Tokyo last week.
Between the US Open and the end of the 2024 season, Tiafoe managed just three wins on tour, meaning he has relatively few points to defend in the remainder of the year. This provides an ideal platform for a quick rebound and a push to secure a top-20 finish. However, whether he can regain form and deliver stronger performances remains uncertain.
Shanghai has historically been a difficult venue for Tiafoe, where he has yet to make a significant impact despite five appearances. Three of his previous five campaigns ended in opening round exits, with his best showing being a third-round run in 2024.
Yannick Hanfmann struggled for wins during the first half of the year, but his form has improved significantly in the second half. He is now consistently winning matches across all levels, boosting his season record to 37-24. His time in China has been particularly productive, reaching the semifinals at the Jingshan Challenger last week and advancing to the second round at the Shanghai Masters after winning three matches as a qualifier.
Although the German has racked up numerous wins in recent months, it has not yet translated into a significant rise in the ATP rankings, as he remains around No. 150. However, if he maintains this level of form, upward movement is likely soon, especially since he ended the 2024 season on a six-match losing streak and has no points to defend for the remainder of the year.
Hanfmann needs just one more win to secure his best result at the Shanghai Masters, as his only previous second-round appearance here ended in a three-set loss to Christopher Eubanks in 2023. His career record in second-round matches at Masters events currently stands at 3-4.
Head-to-Head: Frances Tiafoe leads 1-0. A few weeks ago, Tiafoe would have been the clear overwhelming favorite in this matchup. While he is still considered the stronger player on paper, recent dips in form, confidence, and fitness provide an encouraging opening for Yannick Hanfmann to challenge him here.
