Marin Cilic vs Nikoloz Basilashvili Preview & Prediction | 2026 Almaty Open | First Round

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Marin Cilic takes on Nikoloz Basilashvili at the Almaty Open. 

Ranking points: ATP 250

Start date/time: 19 October 2026 at 9:50 am

Venue: Almaty Arena, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Surface: Indoor hard

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

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

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Marin Cilic vs Nikoloz Basilashvili ticket information

Marin Cilic vs Nikoloz Basilashvili prediction

Marin Cilic made his return from injury at the Shanghai Masters, losing in the opening round to Arthur Fery in straight sets. The Croatian had a set point in the first set but went on to lose 7-6 (2) 6-1. He then dropped down to compete on the Challenger Tour in Jinan, winning his first-round match against Adam Walton, before a loss to Yosuke Watanuki. The 2014 US Open champion is ranked 80 in the world and has reached just one semi-final all year. 

He faces Nikoloz Basilashvili. The Georgian qualified after wins over Taro Daniel and Walton. He has impressed over the past few weeks, highlighted by his run from qualifying to the semi-finals of the Chengdu Open at the end of last month. Overall, he has won nine of his last 11 matches in total.

Cilic leads the head-to-head 2-0 and is yet to drop a set to Basilashvili. His experience and previous success deserve respect, but the 34-year-old has demonstrated stronger recent form and already has two victories on these courts. 

Marin Cilic vs Nikoloz Basilashvili tip: Over 21.5 games