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Bernard Tomic will have to produce his best tennis tonight if he hopes to get past last year’s US Open finalist Kei Nishikori at the Brisbane International. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 2:00pm (AEDT).
Despite being pushed by Thanasi Kokkinakis in the opening set, Tomic produced enough quality when it mattered to eventually get past the 18 year old Australian in straight sets.
It was a mature performance from Tomic given that Kokkinakis is a great young talent on the rise. Tomic’s experience on the big points however proved telling, particularly during the tie-breaker in the opening set which he won 7-2.
Standing in Tomic’s way today however is a player that knows how to compete and win big matches. Nishikori is at the peak of his powers at the moment and is a legitimate threat to any player on the ATP tour.
His run through to the US Open final last season was nothing short of outstanding. His win over Novak Djokovic in the semi-final was very impressive, and as a result, Nishikori is now entrenched inside the top ten on the ATP tour rankings.
While Nishikori doesn’t possess the shot-making prowess of a Roger Federer, he certainly makes up for it with his determination and hustle around the court. The Japanese player moves very well, possesses good temperament and is usually spot on with his shot selection, particularly from the forehand side.
However, Nishikori can be blown off court by more powerful and flamboyant players as evidenced by his straight sets defeat to Marin Cilic in the US Open final. With this in mind, Tomic’s backhand down the line should hurt Nishikori if the Australian is able to find his range early.
Tomic’s backhand was the shot that hurt Kokkinakis the most last round and it may prove to be the shot that allows him to get on top tonight in a gripping contest.
Tomic in three sets.