2021 Madrid Open First Round – Karen Khachanov vs Kei Nishikori Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
Where is Karen Khachanov vs Kei Nishikori taking place? Park Manzanares, Madrid, Spain
When is Karen Khachanov vs Kei Nishikori on and what time does it start? Tuesday 4th May, 2021 – Not before 10:00 (UK)
What surface is Karen Khachanov vs Kei Nishikori being played on? Clay (outdoor)
Where can I get tickets for Karen Khachanov vs Kei Nishikori? Click here for the latest ticket information
What channel is Karen Khachanov vs Kei Nishikori on? This match will not be televised live in the UK
Where can I stream Karen Khachanov vs Kei Nishikori in the UK? Amazon Prime subscribers can stream the match live on Prime Video. Tennis TV subscribers can also stream the match live
THE PREDICTION
World number 23 Karen Khachanov has struggled for consistent form all season long but the 24-year-old is an excellent clay-court competitor when he wants to be and could savour the return of limited crowds more than most. He takes on a popular player in Kei Nishikori, though, with the Japanese star on an impressive rout back to the top 30 if he carries on in his current trajectory. The 31-year-old took a set off Rafael Nadal at the Barcelona Open last time out before losing to the eventual champion and he has been the more impressive performer of the two here in recent weeks. The pair have faced-off four times before and share a finely-poised 2-2 head-to-head record, with this fifth meeting looking like a tough one to pick a winner from. For want of a tricky result, take Nishikori and Khachanov to take a set each and need three here before a winner is found.
