Grigor Dimitrov is set to face qualifier Raphael Collignon in the second round of the 2026 Brisbane International, marking an intriguing match-up between a seasoned player and a rising star. Dimitrov enters the match as a moderate favorite at -250 on FanDuel, reflecting his experience and past successes, yet also hinting at doubts surrounding his health after a tumultuous 2025 season marred by injuries.
Dimitrov, a two-time champion in Brisbane, recently demonstrated his potential by convincingly defeating Pablo Carreno Busta in his opening match, winning 6-3, 6-2. His performance in this match has fans hopeful about his fitness as he begins his 2026 campaign. Last season, his stats showcased an impressive 76% win rate on first serves and a solid break-point conversion rate of 39%, suggesting he has the skills to control matches when fit.
Collignon, on the other hand, surprised many by defeating Denis Shapovalov in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2, to secure his spot in the second round. While Collignon’s performance at the Challenger level has been commendable, his ATP-level statistics reveal a disparity, particularly in return efficiency where he won just 26% of first-serve return points last season.
In light of these performances, the betting market reflects a cautious optimism for Dimitrov, taking into account his recent struggles with durability. The matchup is expected to hinge on Dimitrov’s ability to maintain his form and fitness throughout the match. Should he perform as expected, he holds a definitive edge in serve quality and experience, which may well prove enough to counter Collignon’s potential.
As tennis fans gear up for this clash at the Pat Rafter Arena, anticipation builds not only for a display of skill but also as a measuring stick for Dimitrov’s recovery and readiness for the season ahead. The match is scheduled for January 7, 2026, not before 6:30 PM AEST, and will be available for viewing on various sports networks including Tennis Channel, beIN Sports, and Sky Sports, as well as streaming platforms across different regions.