Just like in the previous season, he reached the quarter-finals by defeating the local Rinky Hijikata 4-6, 7-6(5) and 7-6(4) in a vibrant duel that was decided by details in key moments. Thanks to this victory, he reached world No. 71, the best of his career, climbing 13 positions and positioning himself as one of the names to watch at the start of the year. The Belgian will face American Brandon Nakashima, who defeated Frenchman Quentin Halys 6-2, 6-4. Another standout match of the day was the tight victory of Aleksandar Kovacevic over Cameron Norrie 7-6(4), 4-6 and 6-4. The American sustained his victory with a devastating serve, connecting 21 aces that were impossible for the Briton to counter, even though Norrie won one more point in the total of the match (103-102), one of those curiosities that tennis often gives. Meanwhile, Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard once again demonstrated his affinity with Brisbane. Buenos Aires, Jan 8 (NA) – The day of the ATP 250 in Brisbane left resonant results and confirmed that the start of the 2026 season leaves no room for distractions. The biggest blow was protagonized by Grigor Dimitrov, who officially returned to the courts after his serious pectoral injury suffered at Wimbledon, but said goodbye prematurely by falling in the second round to Belgian Raphael Collignon 7-6(1) and 6-3, as reported by the Argentine News Agency. Collignon's victory was no coincidence. With solidity from the baseline, power on both sides and great temperament in key moments, the Belgian confirmed his growth and reached the quarter-finals.
