Must-Watch Second-Round Matches: Top Five Picks
As the Australian Open 2026 heats up, several second-round matches stand out as must-watch encounters. With intense rivalries and diverse playing styles, these matches promise thrilling action on the court.
Top Five Must-Watch Second-Round Matches
Lorenzo Musetti vs. Lorenzo Sonego
Two talented Italians will face off when Lorenzo Musetti meets Lorenzo Sonego. Musetti, seeded fifth, has recently cracked the top 10 rankings. Known for his elegant backhand and all-court game, he looks to surpass his previous third-round finish at the Australian Open.
Sonego, an athletic player known for his trick shots, is no stranger to high-stakes matches. He made headlines with a remarkable behind-the-back winner against Stan Wawrinka last year. Although Musetti is favored to win, Sonego achieved his career-best quarterfinal at this tournament and won their last meeting at the 2025 Paris Masters.
Reilly Opelka vs. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina
This match features contrasting styles as Reilly Opelka takes on Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Opelka, towering at 211 cm, boasts one of the most formidable serves on tour, averaging nearly 18 aces per match. His aggressive net play and powerful forehand make him a tough opponent.
In contrast, Davidovich Fokina excels with his explosive movement and versatile gameplay. He is known for having one of the best drop shots in the game. Both players enjoyed comfortable victories in the first round, setting the stage for an exciting clash. Opelka will aim for tiebreaks, while Davidovich Fokina will leverage his speed and agility to outlast the American.
Coco Gauff vs. Olga Danilovic
Coco Gauff steps into her second-round match against Olga Danilovic with confidence. The young American had a stellar 2025 season, winning the Roland Garros title and a WTA 1000 event in Wuhan. She opened her Australian Open campaign with a straightforward victory over Kamilla Rakhimova.
Danilovic will face Gauff for the first time in their careers. Gauff’s recent form and experience in high-pressure matches place her as the favorite, making this encounter one to watch.
Exciting Matchups Await
- Musetti vs. Sonego: A captivating all-Italian showdown.
- Opelka vs. Davidovich Fokina: An intriguing clash of serving power versus agility.
- Gauff vs. Danilovic: A promising debut meeting for both players.
These matches highlight the excitement of the second round at the Australian Open 2026. With each player bringing their unique strengths to the court, fans can expect an electric atmosphere as they battle for advancement in the tournament.
