Opelka Dominates Hijikata In Stunning French Open Victory

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Post on May 26, 2025

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Opelka Dominates Hijikata in Stunning French Open Victory

American giant Reilly Opelka delivered a masterclass of serve-and-volley tennis, dismantling Japan's Yosuke Hijikata in a stunning first-round victory at the French Open. The match, a captivating display of power and precision, showcased Opelka's dominance on the clay court, a surface not traditionally associated with his style of play. His victory sends a shockwave through the tournament, proving his adaptability and solidifying his status as a dark horse contender.

Opelka's imposing 6'11" frame proved too much for Hijikata to handle. The American's booming serve, consistently clocked over 140mph, proved virtually unreturnable, leaving Hijikata scrambling defensively throughout the match. The sheer power behind Opelka's serves, coupled with his surprisingly effective movement on the clay, overwhelmed his opponent.

<h3>A Masterclass in Serve-and-Volley</h3>

The match was a testament to Opelka's commitment to the increasingly rare serve-and-volley game. While many modern players prioritize baseline rallies, Opelka consistently attacked the net, finishing points with aggressive volleys and overheads. This aggressive approach disrupted Hijikata's rhythm and forced errors, ultimately leading to a comfortable victory.

• Unbreakable Serve: Opelka's serve was the undeniable weapon of choice, generating numerous aces and forcing Hijikata into passive returns. The sheer speed and placement consistently proved too much for the Japanese player to handle.
• Aggressive Net Play: Opelka's commitment to attacking the net was a key differentiator. His volleys were precise and powerful, showcasing a skillset often overlooked in his powerful serve-focused game.
• Unexpected Clay Court Prowess: Opelka's performance challenged the preconceived notions about his game's suitability to clay courts. His movement and court coverage belied the limitations often associated with taller players on this surface.

<h3>Hijikata's Struggle Against the Opelka Onslaught</h3>

Yosuke Hijikata, despite his valiant efforts, struggled to find a way to penetrate Opelka's formidable defenses. His baseline game, usually a strength, was consistently neutralized by Opelka's aggressive serve-and-volley tactics. The match highlighted the significant challenge presented by a player who can dictate points from the very first serve.

<h3>Looking Ahead: Opelka's French Open Prospects</h3>

Opelka's impressive first-round victory sets the stage for a potentially deep run in the French Open. While his unorthodox style might not be traditionally suited to the clay, his recent performance proves his ability to adapt and compete at the highest level on any surface. He will undoubtedly be a formidable opponent for anyone facing him in the upcoming rounds. This unexpected dominance raises questions about the potential for upsets as the tournament progresses, making this year's French Open a truly captivating spectacle. Opelka's journey is one to watch closely. Will he continue his stunning run? Only time will tell.