March 30, 2021, Miami Gardens, Florida, United States Of America: MIAMI GARDENS, FL - MARCH 30: NO SALES TO NEW YORK POST Andrey Rublev of Russia defeats Marin Cilic of Croatia on day 9 of the Miami Open on March 30, 2021 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida...People: Andrey Rublev Miami Gardens United States Of America - ZUMAs214 20210330_zda_s214_095 Copyright: xSMGx
Top seed Andrey Rublev takes on Australia’s Thanasi Kokkinakis in the round of 16 of the Adelaide International 2 on Wednesday.
The previous season ended for Rublev when he crashed out of the semis of the ATP Finals in Turin. He did not have a great start to the new season.
Seeded fourth at the Adelaide International 1, the Russian star played Roberto Bautista Agut in the round of 32. Rublev on the first set and it seemed that he will finish things in the second set. However, the experienced Spaniard mustered a great comeback to win the match 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. Rublev also took part in the doubles event, partnering with compatriot Karen Khachanov. The Russian duo lost to Hugo Nys and Jan Zielinski in the round of 16.
The 26-year-old also took part in the Adelaide International 1. He faced Maxime Cressy in the round of 32. The two players had a grueling encounter that eventually ended with Kokkinakis coming up trumps. He won two competitive sets and marched on to the round of 16. His campaign ended with a loss against sixth seed Jannik Sinner in straight sets.
In the round of 32 in Adelaide International 2, Kokkinakis defeated compatriot Alexei Popyrin in three sets 6-0, 6-7 (5-7), 7-5. Both men served 11 aces each but 8 double faults let Popyrin down.
The head-to-head scoreline currently stands at 0-0 as the two players have never crossed paths as yet.
Prediction: Andrey Rublev to win in straight sets.
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