Rinky Hijikata vs Gael Monfils Preview & Prediction | 2026 Cincinnati Open | First Round

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In what has been an inconsistent year for Rinky Hijikata, the Australian begins the Cincinnati Open against the experienced Gael Monfils in the first round.

Ranking points: ATP 1000

Start date/time: 14 August 2026 at 12:00 am

Venue: Lindner Family Tennis Center, Mason, USA

Surface: Outdoor 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 Rinky Hijikata vs Gael Monfils ticket information

Rinky Hijikata vs Gael Monfils prediction

Rinky Hijikata comes into Cincinnati on the back of a straight sets loss to Jaume Munar. Hijikata has now succumbed to four successive losses since reaching the third round of Queen’s back in mid-June.

39-year-old Gael Monfils most recently reached the second round of the Montreal Open earlier this month before being beaten by Learner Tien. Monfils has returned to ATP action this month for the first time since his wildcard entrance at Roland-Garros.

Monfils pulled off a surprise 2-0 defeat of Kamil Machrzjak in Canada but, despite the inconsistencies of Hijikata, he is the underdog here.

Rinky Hijikata vs Gael Monfils tip: Rinky Hijikata to win 2-1