Sports
Australian Open Day 7: Women’s Matches Heat Up as Players Vie for Round 4
MELBOURNE, Australia — The Australian Open‘s third round concluded on Day 7 with eight intense women’s matches determining who would advance to Round 4. Tennis analysts Jordan Reynolds, Manuel Traquete, and Andreas Pelekis shared their predictions for the day’s key matchups.
In one of the most anticipated matches, Madison Keys faced Danielle Collins. Keys, who struggled in her previous round, was expected to face a tough challenge from Collins, who recently antagonized Australian fans. “Keys scrapped through unconvincingly in the last round,” said Reynolds, predicting Collins to win in three sets. However, Traquete and Pelekis favored Keys, citing her strong start to the 2025 season and powerful forehand.
Another highlight was the clash between Jaqueline Cristian and Erika Lys. Cristian, the aggressor in their previous encounters, was narrowly favored by Reynolds and Pelekis. “This match should come down to nerves and managing the pressure of making the second week of a Slam,” Pelekis noted. Traquete, however, believed Lys would continue her winning streak against Cristian.
Veronika Kudermetova and Beatriz Haddad Maia also battled for a spot in Round 4. Kudermetova’s recent form impressed Traquete, who predicted her to win in three sets. Pelekis and Reynolds, however, leaned toward Haddad Maia, citing her recent victories over Kudermetova and her ability to handle pressure.
Emma Navarro and Ons Jabeur rounded out the day’s key matches. Navarro’s rising form made her a favorite for Reynolds, while Traquete and Pelekis predicted Jabeur’s experience and variety would give her the edge. “Jabeur’s tricky slices and variety will pose a challenge for Navarro,” Pelekis said.
Elsewhere, Emma Raducanu expressed confidence ahead of her clash with Iga Swiatek, while Naomi Osaka retired due to an abdominal injury, ending her campaign. Carlos Alcaraz, meanwhile, made headlines with his playful promise to get a kangaroo tattoo if he wins the tournament.