Alejandro Davidovich Fokina takes on Reilly Opelka and his big first serve in Melbourne on Wednesday. Another American, Frances Tiafoe, will face Francisco Comesana.
(14) Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs. Reilly Opelka
Alejandro Davidovich Fokina had the season of his career in 2025. The Spaniard has his best ever ranking of 14th in the world, but he will fall short if given the chance to secure a title. Last year he reached four finals and lost them all. Davidovich Fokina is not your standard Spanish clay courter. He is good on clay, but his four finals in 2025 were all on hard courts.
Reilly Opelka is far from an ideal opponent. The American has one of the most effective first serves among the men, which is almost impossible to return if he serves well. Davidovich Fokina is the better all-round player, but the outcome of the match will ultimately come down to the No. 14 taking his opportunities when they arise – and hoping Opelka misses some early serves.
Cheryl pick: Davidovich Fokina in 4
Ricky pick: Davidovich Fokina in 4
(29) Frances Tiafoe vs. Francisco Comesana
Frances Tiafoe enters 2026 without coach David Witt and after a disappointing season. He didn’t have a dream start to the new year; he won only one match in Brisbane prior to the start of the Australian Open. He defeated Australian Jason Kubler in straight sets in the first round.
Fortunately for the American, his matchup with his opponent in the second round is favorable. Francisco Comesana has a traditional clay-style defensive game, which is not well suited to dealing with Tiafoe’s aggression. Unless the big favorite is generous in his unforced error donations, expect this one to go the way of Tiafoe.
Cheryl pick: Tiafoe in 3
Ricky choice: Tiafoe in 4
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