<p><a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/men-s-australian-open-winner-2026-8896398">The 2026 Australian Open</a> first round continues to serve up the spectacles, with another local lad in action today. Aussie Rinky Hijikata takes on French veteran Adrian Mannarino later this afternoon, with Hijikata entering as the clear favourite.</p> <p>This matchup promises to showcase the contrast between youthful Australian ambition and seasoned European experience on the Melbourne Park hardcourts. But which will win out?</p> <p>For the latest analysis, odds and betting tips ahead of this first round throwdown, check out our Rinky Hijikata vs Adrian Mannarino prediction below.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Hijikata vs Mannarino Betting Tips</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Match Betting</h3> <p>Hijikata enters this first-round encounter with impressive momentum, having won each of his last 11 ATP main draw matches where he was installed as favourite.</p> <p>This statistical dominance suggests the young Australian has developed the mental fortitude to handle pressure situations effectively.</p> <p>The 24-year-old's recent form indicates he's found consistency in his game, particularly when expectations are placed upon his shoulders.</p> <p>Mannarino, meanwhile, brings decades of tour experience to Melbourne Park. The 37-year-old Frenchman has been a steady presence on the ATP circuit, known for his defensive capabilities and court craft.</p> <p>However, facing a motivated home player in front of an Australian crowd presents unique challenges that could test his veteran composure.</p> <p>The contrast in playing styles should make for compelling viewing. Hijikata's aggressive baseline game and improving serve will be pitted against Mannarino's tactical nous and ability to extend rallies.</p> <p>The Melbourne conditions typically favour power players, which could work in the Australian's favour.</p> <p>The head-to-head odds clearly favour Hijikata, and the reasoning behind this pricing appears sound. The Australian's recent form has been exceptional, particularly in matches where he's been backed by bookmakers.</p> <p>Mannarino's experience cannot be discounted, but his recent results suggest he may be entering a transitional phase of his career.</p> <p>The age gap of 13 years between these players becomes more significant on the physically demanding hardcourts of Melbourne Park, especially in the Australian summer heat.</p> <p>Hijikata's home crowd advantage should provide additional motivation, whilst Mannarino faces the challenging prospect of silencing a partisan Australian audience.</p> <p>The combination of current form, surface suitability, and environmental factors strongly supports the favourite's chances.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/adrian-mannarino-v-rinky-hijikata-10048291">Rinky Hijikata.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Set Betting</h3> <p>Neither player is expected to dominate completely in what should be a competitive encounter.</p> <p>Hijikata's superior current form suggests he should control proceedings, but Mannarino's experience means he's unlikely to surrender without resistance.</p> <p>The statistics show Hijikata has won the first set in each of his last eight ATP first round matches against older opponents, indicating his ability to start strongly in these situations. However, Mannarino's veteran status suggests he could find a way to steal at least one set through tactical adjustments or capitalising on any momentum shifts.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/adrian-mannarino-v-rinky-hijikata-10048291">Hijikata 3-1.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Total Match Games</h3> <p>The total match games line has been set at 38.5 for this first-round encounter. If our prediction of Hijikata winning in four sets materialises, this total appears achievable but not certain to be exceeded.</p> <p>The key factor will be the competitiveness of individual sets. Mannarino's defensive style could extend some sets, but Hijikata's power game should allow him to close out sets efficiently when holding advantage.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/mens-australian-open/adrian-mannarino-v-rinky-hijikata-10048291">Under 38.5 total match games.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>*Odds are subject to change.&nbsp;</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Where to Watch the Hijikata vs Mannarino Australian Open Match</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>For those in Australia, you can watch the 2026 Australian Open first round match between Rinky Hijikata and Adrian Mannarino on the Nine Network.</p> <p>Available on both free-to-air on Channel 9, and 9Gem, you can also watch the match online on 9Now.</p> <p>Alternatively, you can stream the first round match on streaming service Stan Sport.</p>