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Rising Australian star Rinky Hijikata opened his campaign at the Mildura Grand Tennis International, a grass court event taking place in Victoria. He seemed to be very comfortable on grass, taking out his opponent in straight sets.
“I’ve spent a bit of time on the grass now so I feel like I’m playing better, adapting a little bit more than I have been in the last few weeks,” he said. “At this level, there’s never an easy match, you’re going to have work for everything you get, so it’s good to get through today.
“I’m happy with my form and hopefully I continue it moving forward”. The reigning Australian Under 18 champion received a wildcard for the event and has had long summer. “I’ve copped a few losses in a row now, so today was really important.
It’s just about gaining a bit more confidence and getting a couple of wins on the board,” he said. Not getting over himself, he knows a lot of work needs to be done. “It’s going to be tough, Dayne’s a quality player.
I’ve trained with him a bit and he’s going to be tricky on grass. He’s a lefty and he’s really crafty. Hopefully it will be a good match and I’ll put in a good showing,” he said. “I’ve had a bit more exposure at this kind of level now which has helped me quite a lot.
I’ve had a few closes losses which has taught me. Going forward, I think I can use that experience against these kinds of guys to try and push through and make a couple of breakthroughs”.