Novak Djokovic vs Rinky Hijikata Tips, Prediction & Live Stream - Good matchup for Djokovic to open Miami campaign

Djokovic will be playing the Miami Open for the first time since 2019, but it's one of his most successful Masters 1000 events - in fact, he's only won more titles in Paris, compiling a 44-7 record in Miami with six trophies. However, this will be the first time Djokovic competes inside the Hard Rock Stadium, while the Serbian is obviously now in the twilight of his career, coming into this encounter in poor form for his lofty standards.

In saying that, Djokovic will be pleased for this matchup to ease himself into the tournament. Hijikata has also been struggling to start the season, while these two actually played in the first match of the new season in the opening round of Brisbane, with Djokovic cruising in a 6-3 6-3 victory. The 23-time major champion was much more rusty then, so anything other than another comfortable straight sets win for Djokovic would be a huge surprise here.

Just the one previous meeting between the pair, with Djokovic coasting 6-3 6-3 in the first round of the Brisbane International on New Year's Eve to launch the 2025 season.

After failing to win a Grand Slam for the first time since 2017 last year, Djokovic's relatively poor form has continued to start 2025.

Obviously Djokovic targeted the Olympics last year and that mission proved successful, but early signs this year aren't encouraging as the Serbian looks to add to his Grand Slam tally.

Also gunning for a career milestone 100th title on tour, Djokovic has registered a 7-4 record to kick off the year.

It hasn't gone according to plan - Djokovic suffered a surprise loss to Reilly Opelka in Brisbane and then was forced to retire in the Australian Open semi-finals against Alexander Zverev due to a hamstring injury.

Djokovic was then bounced in the opening round of Doha by Matteo Berrettini before a shock defeat to Botic Van De Zandschulp in his Indian Wells opener, meaning he comes into this clash on a three-match losing streak.

Playing predominantly at tour-level so far in 2025, Hijikata has put together an underwhelming 5-7 record, dropping down to No. 86 in the world.

Hijikata right now looks like one of those players that is too good for Challenger level, but not quite strong enough - at this stage - to do consistent damage on the main tour.

The Aussie suffered a very disappointing straight sets loss in the first round of the Australian Open to qualifier Mitchell Krueger, although he did make the quarter-finals of Adelaide the previous week.

Hijikata hasn't really made an impact in North America over the last couple of months, entering Miami following a second round exits at Indian Wells and the Phoenix Challenger.

The 24-year-old did well to earn his first ever win at the Miami Open in his first round clash, edging out the dangerous Hamad Medjedovic 7-5 3-6 7-5.