Day 5 action at the Australian Open continues with a mix of veteran stars, rising talents, and intriguing stylistic clashes. Former champion Stan Wawrinka looks to extend his stay in Melbourne, while Karen Khachanov faces young American Nishesh Basavareddy. Elsewhere, Denis Shapovalov meets veteran Marin Cilic in a clash of heavy hitters, and local favorite Rinky Hijikata takes on Valentin Vacherot. Offering their insights and predictions are Ilemona Onekutu, Steen Kirby and Zain Mustafa. Who will advance?
Australian Open Day 5 Men’s Predictions
Stan Wawrinka vs Arthur Gea
Ilemona: Wawrinka’s opening match showed flashes of his trademark shot-making, particularly off the backhand wing, even if fitness management remains key. Gea impressed with his composure in round one, but absorbing Wawrinka’s pace over five sets is a different challenge.
Prediction: Wawrinka in 5
Steen: At 40, Wawrinka is looking for one more magic moment in Melbourne. Gea, 21, from France, is starting his career out and has already shown flashes of promise on the ATP Challenger Tour and during the qualifying tournament. Wawrinka has the experience, but after Jiri Lehecka was dismantled by Gea, it’s hard to assume Wawrinka will get his storybook ending.
Prediction: Gea in 5
Zain: Stan Wawrinka said “not yet” to his career in Australia in his first-round match, showing some great shot-making to reach the second round. Luckily for him, his draw has opened up a bit. While Arthur Gea’s skill set should not be dismissed after an impressive first-round upset, the Swiss icon should have enough to prolong his stay in Melbourne.
Prediction: Wawrinka in 4
Karen Khachanov vs Nishesh Basavareddy
Ilemona: Khachanov moved through his first-round match efficiently, winning the majority of short points behind his serve and forehand. Basavareddy’s energy and shot tolerance stood out, but the physical weight of Khachanov’s ball should eventually take control.
Prediction: Khachanov in 4
Steen: Basavareddy was a superstar on the ATP Challenger Tour and looked impressive in qualifying. Khachanov is solid at the Australian Open though, 22-10 in his career, and he normally wins matches like this, claiming 30+ ATP level wins over recent seasons. This is a great matchup, Khachanov’s level is higher.
Prediction: Khachanov in 5
Zain: This is a matchup between two players with similar styles — solid backhands, stability from the baseline, and counterpunching tendencies. As such, Karen Khachanov, who does all of those things a level better than Nishesh Basavareddy, should grind out another win.
Prediction: Khachanov in 4
Denis Shapovalov vs Marin Cilic
Ilemona: Shapovalov’s opener featured aggressive intent and improved discipline, particularly in his shot selection under pressure. Cilic’s first-round win is in contention for the most dominant performance of the tournament so far, and if he can replicate that level here, he should have too much for Shapovalov.
Prediction: Cilic in 5
Steen: Shapovalov is a former quarterfinalist at this tournament and has steadied his level into a solid ATP player. Cilic, at 37, hasn’t been a solid tour level player in some years. 35-15 and a former finalist at the AO, he has more than a punchers chance, but Shapovalov is more likely to replicate a high level performance than Cilic at this point in their careers.
Prediction: Shapovalov in 4
Zain: This match will likely feature plenty of winners, unforced errors, and exceptional shot-making. While Marin Cilic’s big serve and forehand combination make him dangerous even at this stage of his career, Denis Shapovalov, despite his inconsistencies, should have enough from the back of the court to come through.
Prediction: Shapovalov in 4
Rinky Hijikata vs Valentin Vacherot
Ilemona: Hijikata fed off the crowd in his first-round win, defending relentlessly and counterpunching effectively. Vacherot played a clean opener, though Hijikata’s ability to extend rallies and force extra shots could prove tricky.
Prediction: Vacherot in 4
Steen: Hijikata excites local fans but has yet to take the leap to a full-time ATP talent. Vacherot’s magical journey in Shanghai means his record on the ATP level has improved to 18-7 since 2025. Vacherot is simply different player now than the journeyman he was and should be judged accordingly.
Prediction: Vacherot in 4
Zain: Rinky Hijikata had a dominant showing in the first round and comes into this match with confidence and strong support from the home crowd. Valentin Vacherot, however, has found the Australian conditions to his liking, serving and hitting big, and if he maintains that level, a third-round appearance is on the cards.
Prediction: Vacherot in 4
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
