It’s the early stages of the Olympic Games and we had Japan’s Kei Nishikori take on Russia’s Andrey Rublev in the opening round. It was the experience of the Japanese star that helped him win the match, 6-3 6-4.
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Set 1: Experienced Kei Nishikori comes on top
As the match began, both Kei Nishikori and Andrey Rublev started things of in a composed manner. However, the Japanese player was serving slightly better than his opponent.
On the other hand, the Russian’s serve let him down as his opponent was taking advantage of his second serve. Nishikori was forcing his opponent to commit way too many errors.
Reuters
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – June 30, 2021 Japan’s Kei Nishikori in action during his first round match against Australia’s Alexei Popyrin Pool via REUTERS/Ian Walton
In the end, the Japanese star took the first set 6-3 after 40 minutes. Nishikori won 33 points as compared to Rublev’s 25 points in the set.
Set 2: Andrey Rublev is no match for the Japanese star
In the following set, both players were playing with great efficiency. Everything was going smooth until the seventh game of the set. In that game, the Japanese player got a glimpse of a breakpoint opportunity and capitalized on the moment.
However, in the very next game, Rublev had the opportunity to break Nishikori but the Japanese player was too strong during the crucial moments. In the end, Kei won the set 6-4.
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 2, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Andrey Rublev of Russia reacts after missing a shot against Hubert Hurkacz of Poland (not pictured) in a men’s singles semifinal in the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
During the set, Nishikori was playing well and was forcing his opponent to commit many errors, similar to the previous set. This win against a top player like Rublev will only give him the added confidence moving forward into the competition. We wish him the very best for the upcoming matches.
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Local hero and 2016 Bronze Medalist Kei Nishikori plays a fantastic match and beats 5th seed Andrey Rublev 6-3, 6-4 to reach the 2nd round in #Tokyo2020. That's Nishikori's first top 10 win since... november 2018! A great moment for him!
