Denis Shapovalov vs Rinky Hijikata Preview & Prediction | 2026 Los Cabos Open | First Round

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Denis Shapovalov begins the defence of his title against Rinky Hijkata.

Ranking points: ATP 250

Start date/time: 29 July 2026 at 3:10 am

Venue: Cabo Sports Complex, Los Cabos, Mexico

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / US – Tennis Channel

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / US – Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Denis Shapovalov vs Rinky Hijikata ticket information

Denis Shapovalov vs Rinky Hijikata prediction

Denis Shapovalov is the defending champion at the Los Cabos Open, as he defeated Aleksandar Kovacevic in last year’s final. He was forced to retire in the first-round of Wimbledon against Pablo Carreno Busta, and he has lost seven of his last eight matches in total. Aside from a semi-final appearance at the Dallas Open, it’s been a very disappointing campaign for the Canadian up to this point.

Rinky Hijikata last competed at Wimbledon, losing in the first-round to Jesper de Jong in five sets. That would have been frustrating for the Australian as he impressed at Queen’s Club in the lead up to the slam; making it all the way from qualifying to the quarter-finals, which included the impressive win over 2025 finalist Jiri Lehecka in the round-of-16.

Shapovalov leads the head-to-head 1-0 as he came from a set down to beat Hijikata in Adelade three years ago. He is comfortable in these conditions, and this is a strong opportunity for him to return to winning ways.

Denis Shapovalov vs Rinky Hijikata tip: Denis Shapovalov to win