Australian Open Day 3: Predictions for Key Women’s Matches

MELBOURNE, Australia — The Australian Open entered its third day on Wednesday, with 20 women’s matches scheduled as the first round concluded. Tennis analysts Jordan Reynolds, Manuel Traquete, and Ilemona Onekutu shared their predictions for key matchups, offering insights into potential upsets and standout performances.

In one of the most anticipated matches, Amanda Anisimova faced María Lourdes Carle. All three analysts favored Anisimova, citing her powerful groundstrokes and hard-court prowess. “Anisimova, if fully fit, is a significant favorite,” said Reynolds. “Carle will afford her much time on her groundstrokes, which should play right into her hands.” Traquete echoed this sentiment, noting Anisimova’s strong start to 2024, while Onekutu highlighted her experience at the Grand Slam level.

Another intriguing matchup featured Yulia Putintseva against Elina Avanesyan. Reynolds and Traquete predicted a straight-sets victory for Putintseva, citing her higher ranking and recent form. However, Onekutu backed Avanesyan, pointing to her breakout performances on slower surfaces. “Avanesyan has the momentum to push for a win,” Onekutu said. “She was a set away from making the second week last year.”

Erika Andreeva faced Saisai Zheng in a match that analysts unanimously predicted would go in Andreeva’s favor. Zheng, ranked No. 688, has struggled since returning from injury, while Andreeva has shown rapid improvement. “Andreeva got an extremely kind draw here and should take full advantage of it,” Traquete said.

Emma Raducanu‘s match against Ekaterina Alexandrova also drew attention. Raducanu, a former Grand Slam champion, has been inconsistent since her return from injury. Reynolds and Onekutu predicted a win for Alexandrova, citing her power and current form. Traquete, however, backed Raducanu, noting her potential to rise to the occasion. “It should be a very close contest, decided by small details,” he said.

As the tournament progresses, these predictions will be put to the test, with fans eagerly watching to see which players advance to the next round.