Tennis action continues in galore as the Rogers Cup kicks off in an enthralling style. The streets of Toronto were in for some epic battles as some of the best battled it out for Canadian Glory. Returning to the court, hoping to turn around a rather poor season, was Nick Kyrgios. However, fans feared yet another disappointing outing as he faced the American Icon, Reilly Opelka.

The duo met in the first round of the tournament now known National Bank Open. As both looked to draw first blood, they guaranteed thorough entertainment. Despite a graceful performance from both, only one could come out victorious in the astonishing battle. Who would it be today?

Thriller start to the game

Nick’s caliber made him the undoubted favorite going into the game, regardless of recent form. However, Reilly wasn’t one to be taken lightly. Going head to head, there was nothing separating the two; until, however, Kyrgios found the all-important service break in game 4. As the scores read 4-3, the Australian was heading the set home.

In doing so, he recorded a 74% win on his first serve and won six out of nine of his second serves. Blasting six aces across the court, he won three games in a row and triumphed over the first set to get the upper hand in the game. The scoreboard read 1-0 to Nick, as he was about to mark his return in a sublime fashion.

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Regardless of his first set loss, Reilly maintained his composure in the second set and once again started in dominating style. He didn’t bat an eye as he aimed to turn the game on its course.

Going all the way down to the wire, he led the set 6-5 with just one game away from a comeback into the match. In deserving style, he won the tie-breaker 7-4. The game was tied at 1-1, with all to play for in the third set.

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Now or never for Nick Kyrgios

Rejuvenated, the American now looked lethal, bringing his A-game to the party. He once again aimed to dominate the match and put instant pressure on the Australian. Naturally, there was a subsequent shift in the body language of the 25-year-old. However, his destiny lied in his own hands, as Reilly looked to cruise his way into the next round.

For Nick, it was more than just a win; it was a statement to doubters who believe his career has met an early end. Undoubtedly, he wanted this more than ever, and it showed with every shot that left his racquet.

However, Reilly was in a mood to crush any hopes of a resurrection for Nick as he attained the all-important service break in the third game itself. Halfway through, the score was 3-1 with the American having the upper hand in the match.

It was now or never for the Australian.

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Despite Nick’s heroics and a relentless grit to pick up a dead season, he failed to get the better of his opponent. The match ended in favor of Reilly as the final scoreline read. 6-4, 6-7, 4-6.

Hopeful fans once again had to settle for disappointment as Nick bowed out of yet another tournament, despite a hard-fought battle. They wait in anticipation, dreading the rumors, looking forward to a return with another shot at his resurrection.