First-round action at the ATP Adelaide International is heating up as Day 2 features seven exciting matchups, with Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas aiming to regain his form ahead of the Australian Open. The anticipation builds as fans await to see who will emerge victorious.
In the match between Tristan Schoolkate and Rinky Hijikata, the head-to-head record favors Hijikata, who previously defeated Schoolkate. Schoolkate has had a strong year on the Challenger Tour, marking his top 100 debut and claiming two titles. He began his 2026 season in Brisbane, where he succumbed to James Duckworth in qualifying. Hijikata, who has experience in the main draw, will look to defend his quarterfinal points from last year. With superior movement and defensive play, he is predicted to secure a win over Schoolkate.
Gabriel Diallo is set to face Andrea Vavassori for the first time in their careers. Vavassori has displayed impressive form in his recent singles matches, highlighted by a victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime in Rotterdam and a close finish in the Manama Challenger final. He qualified for the Adelaide main draw after defeating Raphael Collignon and World No. 102 Thiago Agustin Tirante. However, Diallo’s powerful game may give him the slight advantage in a tightly contested battle.
Tsitsipas will take on Aleksandar Vukic, having previously won their only encounter. The Greek star showed promising signs at the United Cup, and despite a challenging 2025 season filled with injuries and doubts about his future in tennis, he appears to have addressed some of the issues affecting his game. Vukic, who thrives on fast surfaces and performed well in recent qualifiers, holds a tough record in main draws at Adelaide but may find it challenging against an improving Tsitsipas.
As the tournament progresses, the excitement and intensity of the matches promise an entertaining showcase of talent, with players looking to set the stage for their upcoming seasons.