Daniil Medvedev vs Sho Shimabukuro Preview & Prediction | 2026 Almaty Open | Round of 16

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Daniil Medvedev begins the defence of his Almaty Open title against Sho Shimabukuro. 

Ranking points: ATP 250

Start date/time: 22 October 2026 at 7:00 am

Venue: Almaty Arena, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Surface: Indoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – Tennis Channel

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Daniil Medvedev vs Sho Shimabukuro ticket information

Daniil Medvedev vs Sho Shimabukuro prediction

Daniil Medvedev enjoyed a strong run in Asia, though he was unable to reach a second Shanghai Masters final after a straight sets loss to Rafael Jodar in the last four. That was his second semi-final defeat, following a dramatic disqualification default against Novak Djokovic at the China Open. However, Medvedev successfully captured his third title of the year in Hangzhou at the end of last month, defeating Andrey Rublev in the final. Maintaining his position inside the world's top five, the top seed will be highly motivated to defend his crown and win this title for a second year in a row. 

Medvedev received a bye in the first-round and now plays Sho Shimabukuro. The Japanese player came from a set down to beat Roman Safiullin in his opening match, winning 6-7 (4) 6-4 6-4.

Medvedev is in excellent form, and he will be the clear favourite to come away with the victory.

Daniil Medvedev vs Sho Shimabukuro tip: Under 20.5 games