Rinky Hijikata vs Valentin Vacherot Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | Second Round
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Home favourite Rinky Hijikata takes on Valentin Vacherot with both hoping to make it to the third round in Melbourne for the first time in their respective careers.
Start date/time:
Venue: Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia
Surface: Outdoor hard
How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – ESPN
How to watch online: UK – discovery+ / USA – ESPN+ & Tennis Channel
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Rinky Hijikata vs Valentin Vacherot prediction
Rinky Hijikata will no doubt hope the power of having the home crowd on his side can help provide him with the extra 10% needed to succeed against a player like Valentin Vacherot. A straight-sets win over France’s Adrian Mannarino saw the Australian through where Valentin Vacherot lies in wait.
Vacherot came into this tournament seeded at number 30 and he got the better of Martin Damm Jr in the opening round. The former took all three of the break points that he generated across the match whilst saving all five of Damm Jr’s breaks, demonstrating a impressive display of ruthlessness and cutting edge.
That clinical touch by Vacherot should put him in an excellent position to succeed in this match. But the crowd will be against him in their support for Hijikata. Either way, back the contest to exceed three sets.
Rinky Hijikata vs Valentin Vacherot tip: Over 3.5 total sets
