It’s day 2 at the Australian Open with Karolina Pliskova and Elina Svitolina both in action. Steen Kirby and Yesh Ginsburg offer their predictions.
Nao Hibino vs Astra Sharma
Yesh: Both of these players have plenty of potential but neither has yet to really showcase it. Hibino is more consistent at the moment, so I guess I’ll go with her, but this could go either way. Hibino in 3
Steen: A competitive matchup, but Hibino should be the better player here. Hibino in 3
Marie Bouzkova vs Elina Svitolina
Yesh: Bouzkova is a rising player and a real upset threat. Svitolina is one of the most talented players in the world, but she often struggles in pressure situations. I’m not pulling the trigger on the upset, but I won’t be shocked by one either. Svitolina in 3
Steen: Bouzkova is playing well enough but Svitolina is playing much better and should get the result here. Svitolina in 2
Karolina Pliskova vs Jasmine Paolini
Yesh: Paolini is a consistent player who can stay at the edge of the Top 100 at her best. Pliskova, meanwhile, is a serious contender to win it all. Pliskova in 2
Steen: A great WTA player since 2016, Pliskova will be the heavy favourite, Paolini has splashes of talent but won’t be able to hold up fully. Pliskova in 2
Olga Danilovic vs Petra Martic
Yesh: Danilovic can challenge top players and cause upsets when her game is on, but she can’t do that consistently yet. Martic is not at the same level as the French Open a few years ago, but she’s still strong enough to win. Martic in 2
Steen: Danilovic is capable but lacks experience, Martic the veteran has a narrow edge. Martic in 2
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