Opelka Returns to Dallas Open, Faces Shevchenko in First Round

DALLAS, Texas — American tennis star Reilly Opelka is set to make his return to the ATP Tour at the Dallas Open, facing Kazakhstan‘s Alexander Shevchenko in the first round on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. This marks Opelka’s first appearance in Dallas since winning the title in 2022.

Opelka, ranked 145th in the world, has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons but showed promise earlier this year by reaching the final of the Brisbane International. However, his performance at the Australian Open was lackluster, losing in the first round to Tomas Machac in five tight sets. The 6-foot-11-inch player is known for his powerful serve, having hit 222 aces last season and 78 in just two matches at the 2025 Australian Open.

Shevchenko, ranked 82nd, enters the match with a 23-29 win-loss record from the 2024 season. The Kazakhstani player, known for his varied playing style and effective use of drop shots, is making his debut in Dallas. He recently helped Kazakhstan secure a Davis Cup victory against Pakistan.

Bookmakers favor Opelka, citing his strong serve and home-court advantage. “Reilly thrives on indoor hard courts and has already proven he can win here,” said a tennis analyst. “Shevchenko has yet to find success on this surface, which could be a deciding factor.”

The match is scheduled for 10:00 PM CEST and will be their first head-to-head encounter. Fans are eager to see if Opelka can capitalize on his strengths and advance to the next round.