Hijikata as an outsider on grass...

We generally like that!

Indeed, the Australian is a bit of a nightmare to play on this surface. Already 7 matches in his legs, including 5 wins, whereas Tabilo hasn’t played on grass for two years. With his serve quality, his lefty touch, how clutch he can be when he’s on, and his feel for the game, he’s played some very high-level matches on this surface in 2024. But now, after a long, exhausting clay season, I’m wondering about the Chilean’s real motivation. I mean, he’ll be motivated, but after Wim he’ll quickly go back to playing clay tournaments. Not much time to adapt his game and his mindset. Because yes, it’s different on grass. He knows it, he already has the experience of an old hand in tennis. But that fire from Hijikata, who’s here to rack up as many points and as much money as possible on this surface, that’s not the same. Right? ;).

In terms of the match-up, I really like Hijikata’s ability to neutralize his opponent’s power here and to make him play. For a first match on grass this season, that’s at least going to force him to play a great match. Knowing that the Australian can also play aggressively! As for Tabilo, of course his serve is going to help him a lot here, and he’s a guy who will never give up anything.