Aussie wildcard Rinky Hijikata is out of the 2026 Australian Open.
He lost his second-round clash, with Valentin Vacherot of Monaco winning 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 on Kia Arena.
Vacherot faces the winner of the Ben Shelton-Dane Sweeny clash in the next round. Shelton leads 6-3, 5-1.
Vacherot triumphed.Credit: AP
Despite a third-set resurgence, Hijikata was ultimately no match for his Monegasque opponent.
Vacherot seemed unfazed by the roaring Aussie crowd, who even showed their appreciation for Hijikata after he lost, cheering and clapping as he left the court.
Vacherot pumped his fist in the air and thanked his supporters in the crowd who wore “Tribune Bleue” shirts.
“Tribune Bleue” supporters are known for travelling the world to cheer on French players.
“Thank you guys, for the first time in my life, I lose the third set and then win the match,” Vacherot joked.
“Not easy, of course, to play against an Aussie with a home crowd, but pretty respectful.”
Vacherot playfully signed the camera “Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oui, Oui, Oui.”
