Félix Auger-Aliassime did not disappoint the approximately 12,000 fans who gathered to welcome him to Stade IGA on Wednesday evening. He defeated Japan’s Yoshito Nishioka in straight sets 7-6, 6-4.
Posted at 10:18 p.m.
Nishioka was not easy prey. The little southpaw had just lost the final of the Washington tournament and he had a record of two wins and a loss against Auger-Aliassime. However, visibly carried by the noisy and engaged spectators, Auger-Aliassime found a way to get out of trouble.
Despite a checkered start to the match, strewn with unforced errors and service irregularities, the Quebecer distinguished himself with his forehand and his service returns.
The majority of the exchanges were fiercely contested, but ultimately, the Quebecer will have demonstrated his superiority.
He will have an appointment with Cameron Norrie (9) in the next round. The Briton eliminated him in the semi-finals of the Los Cabos tournament last week.
More details will follow.