Kei Nishikori is back to playing regular tennis and his return journey continued today at the Hamburg European Open. It wasn't a good match from the Japanese as his form is far from perfect since his return. He played against Christian Garin a player who loves playing on clay and has been steadily climbing the rankings through the years. in the first set Garin completely dominated the match winning the set with 6-0. There wasn't anything positive for Kei in that set but he looked a bit better in the 2nd.

Ultimateyl it would not be enough as the Chilean was simply better today and in better form overall. It will a long and steady return for Kei but the tennis world is happy to have him back on the courts. As for Garin, he will look to string together some clay matches before the French Open where he hopes for a good result.

The 2nd match of the day was an interesting one between Roberto Bautista Agut and Nikoloz Basilashvili. The Spaniard had very good performances on the hard courts in America so he will be looking to continue his good form. Today's match was a good one especially in the first set where he seemed focused and comfortable on the clay. From the early moments of the match, he was better than his opponent winning the first set 6-4. The 2nd one was even quicker as Nikoloz played worse especially early in the set allowing Roberto an early break.

He would build upon that break and cruise to an easy 6-3 second set victory for a total victory of 6-4 6-3. It was a good start for the Spaniard who is looking for another title in Hamburg.

https://twitter.com/hamburgopen/status/1308350855717040134