Three to See, Australian Open Day 2: Raonic vs. de Minaur, Osaka vs. Garcia, Auger-Aliassime vs. Thiem
Before each day’s play, we’ll preview three must-see matches.
Milos Raonic vs. Alex de Minaur
Just because de Minaur is newly inducted into the Top 10 doesn’t mean Raonic is immediately out of the running. At any point, the Canadian can take command of a match with his serving prowess.
Unfortunately for Raonic, his return from injury hasn’t been the easiest. He's played one match since the US Open, and physicality will of course be an issue. But if all goes to plan and Milos Milos-es like the former Wimbledon finalist can, then this match is truly going to be a pivotal turning point in his return.
Naomi Osaka vs. Caroline Garcia
Garcia has dipped outside the Top 10, but she can of course give returning favorite Osaka a serious challenge. Since her show-stopping 2022 WTA Finals performance, Garcia has been a feared opponent. She’s no longer competing like she has something to prove, but rather playing like she belongs in the sport's top tier.
Osaka's long-awaited return started in Brisbane, going 101, but all eyes will be on her in Melbourne. It could be a quick appearance, but something in the Aussie air says she’s more prepared than ever before to compete at the highest level.
Felix Auger-Aliassime vs. Dominic Thiem
Plain and simple, these are two ultra-talented players who have fallen into slumps. For Thiem, it was as a result of an injury. For Auger-Aliassime, it’s because the level of tennis around him rose to where he is now playing catch up.
That being said, there is no reason both of these players couldn't be contenders for Slams again. This match should be a good barometer of much their games have improved since the previous season. Just as important, their intensity on court will showcase how incredibly hard they’re fighting for a return to the top.