It promises to be an entertaining start to the Australian Open with 16 matches on the slate on the first day in Melbourne. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match, including Mirra Andreeva vs Marie Bouzkova, Zheng Qinwen vs Anca Todoni and Aryna Sabalenka vs Sloane Stephens. But who will secure a spot in the second round?

Australian Open Day 1 Predictions

Paula Badosa vs Wang Qiang

Ilemona: Paula Badosa’s experience and powerful baseline game should give her the edge against Xinyu Wang, especially if she can dictate play early with her heavy groundstrokes. However, Wang’s recent form and consistency from the back of the court could pose problems if she extends rallies and forces Badosa into defensive positions. Expect a competitive match, but Badosa’s ability to raise her level in key moments may see her prevail here.

Prediction: Badosa in 2

Jordan: Badosa has made a slow start to the season, and this is a dangerous matchup for her. Wang showed her ability during two victories against Jessica Pegula last season, although she is inconsistent. But it feels like Badosa is due a deep run at the Australian Open and her playing style is suited to disrupting Wang.

Prediction: Badosa in 2

Ateet: Paula Badosa didn’t start the year as she would have liked to but I don’t think it’s concerning as her main goal would have been to peak at the Australian Open. She gets a tricky first-round opponent in Xinyu Wang but should win this if she can play close to her best.

Prediction: Badosa in 2
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Clara Tauson vs Linda Noskova

Ilemona: Clara Tauson’s aggressive baseline game and powerful serve could give her the upper hand against Linda Noskova, especially if she can control the rallies early. However, Noskova’s solid defensive skills  might trouble Tauson if she extends points and forces errors. Expect a close contest, but Tauson’s superior firepower could be the difference in this match.

Prediction: Tauson in 2

Jordan: This should be a fun match between two young and powerful ball-strikers. Tauson made the stronger start to 2025 by winning the ASB Classic, and Noskova often struggles when she does not have time on her groundstrokes. Those factors might tip the match in Tauson’s direction.

Prediction: Tauson in 2

Ateet: Noskova had a breakout run at the Australian Open last year, beating some great players en route to the quarterfinal. She will hope for another such run but has a very tough opening round match against Clara Tauson, who will come into this match on the back of winning her third WTA title. Both are brilliant hard-court players and this should be a great match. Tauson has a brilliant serve which can make a difference in key moments.

Prediction: Tauson in 3

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova vs Yuan Yue

Ilemona: Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova’s experience and shot variety could give her the advantage against Yue Yuan, especially if she dictates play with her forehand. However, Yuan’s athleticism can make her a dangerous opponent. Expect a competitive battle, but Pavlyuchenkova’s experience in high-pressure moments may see her edge through.

Prediction: Pavlyuchenkova in 2

Jordan: Although Pavlyuchenkova’s overall CV is more impressive, she has not been close to her best for some time. By contrast, Yuan has improved in the last 12 months and hard courts are her best surface by far. She is capable of moving Pavlyuchenkova around the court in the hot Melbourne conditions.

Prediction: Yuan in 3

Ateet: Playing in her 17th Australian Open main draw, Pavlyuchenkova has tons of experience at this level. But she is not quite at her best these days and can spray errors. Yue Yuan plays her best tennis on hard courts and will be seeking her first match win at the Australian Open. It’s a tough one to predict but I will go with the more experienced player.

Prediction: Pavlyuchenkova in 3
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Leylah Fernandez vs Yuliia Starodubtseva

Ilemona: Leylah Fernandez’s consistency and ability to counterpunch effectively should give her the edge against Yuliia Starodubtseva, especially if she can redirect pace and control the baseline exchanges. Starodubtseva’s aggressive style could trouble Fernandez if she finds her range early, but her lack of experience at this level may be a factor. Expect Fernandez’s composure and defensive skills to lead her to a straight-sets victory.

Prediction: Fernandez in 2

Jordan: Starodubtseva is a player who can suddenly come to life. However, I do not trust her enough to do that against Fernandez. The former US Open champion to be too solid for the Ukrainian.

Prediction: Fernandez in 2

Ateet: Fernandez always has high expectations to make a deep run in big tournaments and this year is no exception. She looked good in the lead-up tournaments and shouldn’t have problems winning this match.

Prediction: Fernandez in 2

Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports