Felix Auger-Aliassime says whether he was affected by the heat and humidity at the United Cup

Follow us on Google Discover

Felix Auger-Aliassime didn’t take long to get up to speed in 2026…

The Canadian star was excellent in his first singles match at the 2026 United Cup, defeating Zhang Zhizhen in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.

Then, partnering with Victoria Mboko, Auger-Aliassime picked up his second win of the year in the mixed doubles, as Canada beat China 3-0.

The conditions were tricky in Sydney, although you wouldn’t have noticed it by watching Auger-Aliassime.

During his post-match press conference, the 25-year-old was asked if the heat and humidity affected him.

Felix Auger-Aliassime admits the conditions in Sydney would have affected him in a five-set match

“Yeah, I mean, it didn’t get to the extent of affecting me. I think if I played five sets, yes,” he said.

“I think it’s good that I’m here because I haven’t played in this humidity in a while. Finished the season indoors. Probably the last time was the semifinals in the US Open, where it was like that humid, I had some cramps. It was similar humidity, storm outside, this roof, packed.

“Honestly, it was tough. I felt it a little bit in my legs in the second. Obviously, being ahead in the match and being able to close it out with my serve, I didn’t have to dig that deep.

“Yes, humidity was strong.”

Auger-Aliassime was up to the task against China, but who will he play when he returns to the court?

Felix Auger-Aliassime will play Zizou Bergs and Belgium

Next up for Team Canada is a tricky test against Belgium.

Zizou Bergs is the Belgian ATP singles star, while Elise Mertens is their top WTA player.

Auger-Aliassime and Bergs have never played each other on the ATP Tour.

If Auger-Aliassime and Canada can seal the win over Belgium, they will qualify for the quarterfinals of the United Cup.

That would be a first for the Canadians, who fell at the round robin stage in 2024 and 2025.

Only time will tell if they can get the job done, but you certainly won’t want to miss any of the action when Canada play Belgium on Tuesday, January 6.