Johan Nikles vs Timofey Stepanov Head-to-Head Stats, Results & Performance Comparison

• Stepanov has demonstrated stronger second serve performance recently, winning 45.28% of points, slightly above Nikles at 43.29%.
• How crucial is the ability to return serves in a match? Nikles excels in return games, especially on second serves, winning 50.72% of points compared to Stepanov's 44.16%.
• On first serve returns, Nikles again outperforms, capturing 34.06% of points, while Stepanov takes 29.53%.
• Under pressure, Stepanov is better at saving breakpoints with a 54.55% success rate, as opposed to Nikles' rate of 49.32%.
• Regarding overall match win rate over the last year, Stepanov edges ahead with 70.59% compared to Nikles' 60%.
• What role does surface preference play? Stepanov’s best surface is Clay (57% win rate), contrasting with Nikles who thrives on Hard courts (62%).
• Both players mostly compete in Futures/Satellites/ITF tournaments $10K, with Stepanov achieving a 70.59% win rate, while Nikles has 62.5% in this category.
• Stepanov faces generally higher-ranked opponents, with an average rank of 103.35, unlike Nikles, whose opponents average a rank of 342.83.
• Should this event reach a deciding set, Stepanov has a clear advantage, winning 67% of such sets compared to Nikles' 42% success rate.
• In recent break point conversion, Nikles shows a decisive edge with a conversion rate of 44.09%, significantly higher than Stepanov’s 21.57%.

Editorial Prediction (August 28, 2025, UTC):

Both Stepanov and Nikles showcase strengths and areas for improvement as they prepare for their upcoming match. Stepanov’s resilience under pressure and his experience against higher-ranked players give him a certain edge.

Nikles, on the other hand, demonstrates superior return games and break point conversion, critical areas that could sway the match in his favor. His comfort and higher win percentage on hard surfaces might also play a vital role depending on the playing surface of the event.

Given their recent performances, Stepanov's advantage in dealing with pressure and performance against tougher competition may make him the slight favorite. However, if Nikles can exploit his return game superiority, he has a solid chance of claiming victory.

Considering all factors, Stepanov seems more likely to win this matchup, particularly if the match goes into a deciding set where he excels.