Felix Auger-Aliassime experienced the lively atmosphere of New York City, known for never sleeping. Despite a late start and a lengthy match lasting three hours and 19 minutes, including a rain delay, the Montreal tennis player can now understand the city’s energetic vibe.
Ranked third at the U.S. Open, Auger-Aliassime secured victory in his first-round singles match on Monday night, defeating Australia’s Rinky Hijiata with a score of 7-5, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5. Following the match, Auger-Aliassime mentioned the challenges posed by his opponent but expressed relief in advancing to the next round.
During the match, the Canadian delivered 17 aces, 48 winners, and 11 double faults while committing 50 unforced errors. Auger-Aliassime won 18 of 22 service games and six of 21 return games. His next opponent will be Russian player Karen Khachanov, who emerged victorious against Roman Burruchaga of Argentina in straight sets.
In a separate event, Denis Shapovalov from Richmond Hill, Ont., is set to compete in the second round of men’s singles against Luca Van Assche from France on Wednesday. Shapovalov previously defeated Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia in four sets, while Van Assche triumphed over Britain’s Cameron Norrie, also in four sets.
Additionally, Leylah Fernandez from Laval, Que., is preparing for her second-round women’s singles match against Mananchaya Sawangkaew of Thailand on Wednesday. Fernandez secured a win against Shuai Zhang of China in straight sets, while Sawangkaew defeated Panna Udvardy of Hungary in similar fashion.