Reilly Opelka Vs. Rinky Hijikata: 2025 French Open Match Preview And Picks

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Post on May 26, 2025

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Reilly Opelka vs. Rinky Hijikata: 2025 French Open Match Preview and Picks

The 2025 French Open promises a thrilling clash between the towering serve-and-volley specialist Reilly Opelka and the rising Australian star Rinky Hijikata. This highly anticipated matchup presents a fascinating stylistic contrast, pitting raw power against calculated precision. This preview delves deep into both players' strengths, weaknesses, and potential strategies, offering informed picks for this potentially explosive encounter.

Opelka's Strengths: The Serve and Volley Masterclass

Reilly Opelka's game is built around his colossal serve. One of the hardest hitters on the ATP tour, his booming deliveries can regularly reach speeds exceeding 140 mph. This, combined with his adept net play and volley skills, makes him a formidable opponent on any surface. However, the clay courts of Roland Garros present a unique challenge.

Opelka's Challenges on Clay:

While Opelka's serve remains a potent weapon, its effectiveness is somewhat diminished on clay. The slower surface allows for more returns, and rallies tend to be longer, requiring more baseline consistency than Opelka typically displays. His movement, while adequate for faster courts, can be exploited on the clay's slower, more demanding surface.

Hijikata's Rising Star Power:

Rinky Hijikata represents a new generation of Australian tennis talent. His consistent baseline game, featuring powerful groundstrokes and a solid return of serve, makes him a dangerous opponent on all surfaces. His adaptability and tactical awareness give him an edge over players solely reliant on power.

Hijikata's Clay Court Prowess:

Hijikata's game translates well to clay. His ability to extend rallies and dictate play from the baseline gives him a significant advantage against players who rely heavily on quick points. His defensive skills are also noteworthy, allowing him to absorb power and turn defense into offense.

Head-to-Head and Playing Style Considerations:

While a direct head-to-head record between Opelka and Hijikata might be limited (or even non-existent) by 2025, their contrasting styles make this a compelling match. Opelka needs to dictate points quickly with his serve and volley. Hijikata's strategy will likely focus on neutralizing Opelka's serve and engaging in extended baseline rallies, hoping to tire out his opponent.

Key Factors to Consider:

• Opelka's Serve Percentage: If Opelka maintains a high first-serve percentage and consistently wins points at the net, he can control the pace of the match.
• Hijikata's Return Game: The effectiveness of Hijikata's return will be crucial in determining how often Opelka can dictate play.
• Rally Length: The length of the rallies will be indicative of who is controlling the match. Longer rallies generally favor Hijikata.
• Weather Conditions: Windy conditions could impact both players, but potentially favor Hijikata's more consistent baseline game.

Picks and Predictions:

While Opelka possesses the potential to win individual points with his serve, the overall nature of the French Open favors Hijikata's style. His ability to adapt his game to the clay and extend rallies makes him the slight favorite in this clash.

Pick: Rinky Hijikata to win in four sets.

Disclaimer: This preview is based on current form and observable playing styles. Injuries or unexpected changes in form could impact the outcome of the match. These picks are for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional gambling advice.