Analysis for Youzhny-Simon (ATP Indian Wells)

Head-to-head record 1:0

Michail Youzhny will face Gilles Simon of France in the second round. As you probably know, we have already backed on Youzhny several times but he has been fading lately and we think he could easily have serious troubles in his first performance at this tournament. Youzhny plays with a single-handed backhand, which many believe to be his best shot. From both sides, Youzhny hits the ball on the rise to achieve a flatter flight trajectory and to get the ball to the opponent's side quicker. His service is arguably the weakest component of his game as it lacks power and stability. He has a good court sense and often makes use of dropshots to mix up the rallies. He is often able to draw his energy from the engaged crowd to produce a series of risky winners. He should feel well on this surface but lacks match practice and better-prepared Simon could be too hard nut to crack for him. Frenchy looked well in the first round and should have much higher self-confidence than his opponent. He also likes the conditions here if he plays his best tonight, we think he is able to defeat Russian and pay back the tight loss he suffered from Youzhny at Wimbledon.