Predicted Winners in BOLD

(2) Novak Djokovic VS (9) Alternate David Goffin – This is an intriguing match.  Novak Djokovic has already qualified for the semifinal round.  David Goffin simply (not so simple to beati a 12-time major champion) needs to win 2 sets to secure himself 200 ranking points.  Goffin can receive 80% of the points while playing a fraction of the sets and matches needed to win an ATP 250 level event.  Goffin is capable of pushing Novak as we saw in Miami.  I am tempted to pick him, but I think Novak would like to win his 6th World Tour Finals by going undefeated and beating the new (old?) number one in the final.  This motivation plus the 200 ranking points in this match make me think we will see Novak dialed in enough to win in 2 or 3 gritty sets.  Having said all of this, I think Goffin is a harder match-up for Novak than Thiem, Raonic, or Monfils.

Novak Djokovic will face Milos Raonic, Gael Monfils and Dominic Thiem as he bids to reclaim his crown. #ATPFinals #CNNOpenCourt pic.twitter.com/nmuRY7v9IS

— CNN Sport (@cnnsport) November 7, 2016

(4) Milos Raonic VS (8) Dominic Thiem – Each man would love to bank 200 ranking points and add the experience of reaching the final four in London to his resume.  Thiem has the more fluid game, but he also prefers slower surfaces.  Raonic’s massive serve and the indoor conditions will likely prevent Thiem from having the time he would like to have when generating his shots.  This difference should be enough for Milos to advance to the final four.