French tennis is well represented in Saturday's Basel semi-final as young Arthur Fils takes on American Ben Shelton and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard takes on controversial Dane Holger Rune.

(6) Ben Shelton vs. (7) Arthur Fils

The semi-final of the Swiss Indoors Basel between Ben Shelton and 20-year-old Arthur Fils could be the game of the tournament. Their last game was a few weeks ago and the result 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-6(2) went to Fils and was decided by just a few points. This isn't entirely surprising since Shelton isn't known for his return game and defends his serve well.

This game should offer more of that. Even Fils and Shelton's first game of 2023, which Shelton won, included a tiebreaker. The Frenchman is on the rise in 500-level events. Fils has won his last two 500 tournaments (Hamburg and Tokyo) and has had impressive success against other top 20 players. Look for another close game. Fils is playing well this week, but Shelton will be motivated – especially given the chance in Basel, where the top seeds are eliminated.

Cheryl Pick: Shelton in 3

Ricky Pick: Shelton in 3

(4) Holger Rune vs. Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard

Another exciting French player will be in action on Saturday. Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard caused a stir at Wimbledon when he made it to the round of 16 as a lucky loser before being eliminated by Lorenzo Musetti. The world number 50 won his first event in Lyon, but the rest of the season was somewhat disappointing. He came into Basel at 10-11 and has suffered a series of first-round losses since Cincinnati.

Holger Rune, who was ranked No. 4 in the world a year ago and was at No. 4 in his career, is currently ranked No. 14. He had a miserable US Open where he lost in the first round to Brandon Nakashima. He performed well at the Asian Swing and now has the opportunity to reach his first final of the year. This will be the first meeting of these two men. They both play unpredictable tennis, but Rune has more experience in big matches.

Cheryl Selection: Rune in 3

Ricky Pick: Rune in 3