Australian Open Day 1: Key Matches and Predictions

The Australian Open 2025 kicked off with 16 men’s singles matches on Sunday, featuring some of the sport’s biggest names and rising stars. Among the highlights were Reilly Opelka‘s clash with qualifier Gauthier Onclin, Alexander Zverev‘s opening match against wild card Lucas Pouille, and a showdown between Jerry Shang and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.

Reilly Opelka, who reached the final in Brisbane earlier this year, faced concerns over his fitness after retiring from that final. However, analysts predict his powerful serve will be too much for Onclin, who fought through tough qualifiers. Ateet Shrivastava, Ismael Gonzalez, and Yesh Ginsburg all predicted Opelka to advance, with most expecting a straight-sets victory.

In another key match, Alexander Zverev, the world No. 2, began his quest for a maiden Grand Slam title against Lucas Pouille. Zverev, who has come close to major glory in recent years, is heavily favored against the Frenchman, who has struggled to regain his peak form since injuries derailed his career. Analysts unanimously predicted Zverev to win in straight sets.

Jerry Shang and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina faced off in a highly anticipated first-round match. Shang, who had a breakthrough 2024 season, is seen as the favorite despite losing both previous encounters to Davidovich Fokina. The Chinese star’s recent form, including a title win in Chengdu, gives him the edge in this matchup.

Other notable matches included Ugo Humbert‘s clash with Matteo Gigante and Aleksandar Vukic‘s battle against Damir Dzumhur. Humbert, who ended 2024 strongly, is expected to dominate Gigante, while Vukic is favored to overcome Dzumhur in a hard-fought contest.

With 16 matches on the slate, Day 1 of the Australian Open promises to deliver thrilling tennis action as players vie for a place in the second round.