It’s the middle Saturday of the Australian Open and there are some great matches to choose from. On an action-packed day, we’ve picked out our three favorite match-ups to break out the popcorn.
Saturday At The Australian Open
Daniil Medvedev vs Felix Auger-Aliassime
Two years ago, Medvedev lost from two sets up against Nadal in the final. Swings and roundabouts, though, as he actually came back from two sets down against Auger-Aliassime in the fourth round, saving a match point along the way.
Auger-Aliassime isn’t the same force he was then, but the conditions suit him here in Melbourne, and he’s capable of some jaw-dropping passages of play if he’s feeling it.
Medvedev’s just come back from two sets to love down against Ruusuvuori. His slight drop in form should level the playing field here to invite plenty of drama.
Be sure not to miss it! It’s not before 7 pm Melbourne time, kicking off the night session inside Margaret Court Arena.
Jelena Ostapenko vs Victoria Azarenka
Ostapenko extends her winning streak to seven in a row, playing consistently despite hitting the ball with the power of a cannon. She’ll really be up against it here, however, as she takes on Victoria Azarenka.
At first glance, Azarenka’s not in the form to keep up with the Latvian, but don’t be fooled. The former world No. 1 is extremely comfortable Down Under, having made the semifinals here last year, and has starred in some of the best matches of last year.
The level should be high, so make sure you watch the match scheduled not before 2 pm Melbourne time inside Margaret Court Arena.
Juncheng Shang vs Carlos Alcaraz
Though Alcaraz may win this match, we have a hunch Jerry Shang is going to put on a show. He has a phenomenal peak to his game when he’s swinging freely. With absolutely nothing to lose, we think he’ll raise the roof with some of his shot-making.
As Shang’s level rises, the world No. 2’s level will almost certainly rise as well. Expect Alcaraz to attempt to out-pace the 18-year-old with some phenomenal tennis.
We’re seriously excited about this one. The match is due to start not before 1.15 pm Melbourne time inside Rod Laver Arena.
Main Photo Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran – USA TODAY Sports
