Bublik Favored Against Hijikata

Alexander Bublik is the clear favorite heading into his match against Rinky Hijikata. This will be the second time the two players have faced each other, with Bublik currently holding a 1-0 head-to-head advantage. Their previous encounter took place in the Phoenix Challenger in 2025, where Bublik secured a 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 victory.

According to initial odds, Bublik is favored to win with a quote of 1.195, while Hijikata is at 4.6. The match is scheduled for 1:00 pm on Stadium 3.

Bublik’s Road to the Third Round

Ranked No. 10, Bublik reached the third round after defeating Vit Kopriva 3-6, 7-6(3), 6-2. He overcame a one-set deficit in that match, scoring 106 points compared to Kopriva’s 86. Bublik has demonstrated an aggressive playing style, blasting 39 winners in his recent matches.

Other Notable Matches on Monday

Beyond the Bublik-Hijikata clash, several other intriguing matches are on the schedule:

• Daniil Medvedev vs. Sebastian Baez: Both players are vying for a spot in the later rounds of the tournament.
• Alex Michelsen vs. Taylor Fritz: A battle between rising talent and established star.
• Jessica Pegula vs. Jelena Ostapenko: A WTA showdown featuring two powerful players.
• Madison Keys vs. Sonay Kartal: Keys is expected to win this match.
• Marta Kostyuk vs. Elena Rybakina: Rybakina is favored to win this match.
• Valentin Vacherot vs. Casper Ruud: Ruud is expected to win this match.
• Joao Fonseca vs. Tommy Paul: Paul is expected to win this match.

Tournament Details

The BNP Paribas Open is taking place from March 1-15, 2026, at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. The tournament features both ATP and WTA events.

FAQ

When is the Bublik vs. Hijikata match?

The match is scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2026, at 1:00 pm on Stadium 3.

Who is favored to win the Bublik vs. Hijikata match?

Alexander Bublik is the favorite, with odds of 1.195.