Kei Nishikori begins his French Open campaign with a tricky first round match-up against big serving Italian Simone Bolelli. Join The Roar for live scores from 9pm AEST.
Update: This match was delayed in the third set due to rain on Day 1 of the French Open. It is now scheduled to resume at 9pm Monday (AEST).
Nishikori approaches the 2016 French Open in good form, having pushed Novak Djokovic all the way at the Rome Masters before succumbing in three tight sets.
The Japanese star is certainly a contender to go all the way at Roland Garros but he must first navigate a tricky opening round against Bolelli.
Nishikori has faced Bolelli twice in recent years and has been forced to endure epic five set matches before prevailing. Both of these matches were at Wimbledon in 2014 and 2015 respectively.
Bolelli is certainly one of the more difficult players to draw in an opening round of a grand slam. His serve is his greatest weapon and if he finds his range early, tonight’s contest could feature several tiebreaker sets.
Given that clay-court matches tend to be battles of endurance, Nishikori is certainly well equipped in this regard. His movement around the court is exceptional and his double-handed backhand is one of the most solid shots on the ATP tour.
The former US Open finalist will have to be patient though tonight against Bolelli, who certainly possesses the firepower to win a set against Nishikori. Given his recent strong form in Rome however, one expects the world No.6 to eventually secure victory in a well contested affair.
Nishikori to win in four sets
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