It’s time for the Rotterdam Open 2021 to begin and fans will be treated to some amazing quality of tennis. On Monday, Canada’s rising star, Felix Auger Aliassime, will take on the 2014 US Open finalist, Kei Nishikori, in the opening round match. It promises to be an exciting encounter, as both players will aim to go deep into the upcoming tournament.

Kei Nishikori vs Felix Auger Aliassime: Preview

Felix Auger Aliassime was recently seen at the Australian Open 2021. He departed in the fourth round, after losing to the first time semifinalist, Aslan Karatsev. On reaching the fourth round, Felix registered his best performance in Melbourne. On the other hand, Kei made a first-round exit, after losing to Spain’s Pablo Carreno Busta in straight sets.

In the past, Nishikori made it to the quarterfinal stage on four occasions. However, inactivity played a key role in his early departure. The Japanese star missed a majority of last season because of the elbow surgery he had to undergo towards the end of 2019.

Kei Nishikori vs Felix Auger Aliassime: Head-to-Head

The former World No. 4 has played against the rising star of Canada just once. In that match, it was the Japanese player who beat the youngster in straight sets on Barcelona’s clay courts.

Kei Nishikori vs Felix Auger Alisssime: Prediction

Nishikori has the experience to beat the Canadian player, as he’s done it in the past. However, from the previous time they’ve faced each other, Felix has raised his level of gameplay, whereas Kei has been out of match practice for a considerable amount of time.

Felix had quite an impressive showing at the Australian Open, and Nishikori’s display had a lot left to be desired. Hence, taking recent events into consideration, the 20-year-old Canadian should beat the Japanese player when they meet on Monday at the Rotterdam Open 2021.

Also Read: List of Players Not Playing ATP Rotterdam 2021