Kei Nishikori moved into the fourth round of Indian Wells, beating thirtieth seed Steve Johnson 7-6, 7-6 in a close encounter.
The first set was very close, Nishikori posting solid numbers on both first and second serve, above 60% on both counts. Johnson statistics varied much more, almost impenetrable on first serve, but struggling on his second. The men traded solitary breaks before the set went to a tiebreak. Johnson managed to earn a set point but it was Nishikori who edged the set, winning the tiebreak eight-six, based on stronger defensive abilities and outlasting Johnson in rallies.
Johnson struggled to make much of an impact against the Nishikori serve early in the second, and though he was able to improve his second serve winning percentage, his first serve winning percentage dropped. Nishikori also served ahead, and it was the Japanese fifth seed that made the first move, breaking for a seemingly insurmountable lead at five-three. Johnson showed some heart, breaking back as Nishikori served for the match, and then held to love before both men held for the final time for another tiebreak.
Nishikori took the early advantage, leading four-two at the change of ends, Nishikori extended his lead to six-three before good serving by Johnson forced Nishikori to win the match on his third match point. Nishikori did so, earning his fourth consecutive win against the American.
Johnson’s exit means that the home nation is now represented only by Sam Querrey, John Isner, and Jack Sock, all of whom play later on Tuesday. Isner is a potential fourth round opponent for Nishikori, though Isner must first negotiate Adrian Mannarino. Sock takes on the in-form Dominic Thiem.
In other matches, Alexander Zverev broke new ground by defeating French sixteenth seed Gilles Simon 6-2, 6-2. Zverev won in a match lasting just short of an hour and ten minutes, and earned his second career victory against Simon, having also bested him in Rotterdam earlier this year. Zverev will now face the winner of the Rafael Nadal – Fernando Verdasco match.
