The first week of the tennis season kicks off in Brisbane, with top seed Daniil Medvedev against Frances Tiafoe and an all-American clash between Learner Tien and Alex Michelsen.
(1) Daniil Medvedev vs. Frances Tiafoe
Offseason news and outlook for 2026:
- Medvedev – Coming off a relatively disappointing 2025 season with exactly one win at the four majors. In a coaching change at the end of 2025, old coach Gilles Cervara was replaced by former player Thomas Johannson. The Russian’s prospects for 2026 are promising as the world number 13 burst into life at the end of last season.
- Tiafoe – Also underwent a major coaching change, with David Witt sent away for a spell with compatriot Todd Martin. Tiafoe’s prospects for 2026 are uncertain. The world number 30 failed to win a single match after his third-round defeat at the US Open.
Matchup and prediction:
Medvedev has a head-to-head 5-1 lead against Tiafoe. The Russian recorded a solid victory over Marton Fucsovics in his first match of 2026, while Tiafoe defeated Aleksandar Vukic – a talented Australian. Both men played well in their openers, making this second round match promising. With Medvedev building on his 2025 momentum, I can’t pick against the Russian.
Cheryl pick: Medevedev in 3
Ricky pick: Medvedev in 2
(8) Student Ten vs. Alex Michelsen
Offseason news and outlook for 2026:
- Ten – The young American won the ATP Next Gen final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – a promising result considering previous winners include both Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. He is ranked 26th in the world; Expectations are high for this potential star
- Michelsen – Played for Team World for the first time at the Laver Cup last fall. Michelsen will be looking for another great performance at the Australian Open as he defends a 16-point round.
Matchup and prediction:
Michelsen has won both of his matches against Tien, both of which took place on hard courts in 2025. Michelsen worked much harder for his spot in the second round, going the distance against James Duckworth in his first-round match earlier this week. Tien sailed through in two sets against Camilo Ugo Carabelli. Despite Michelsen’s record, Tien has shown more early promise.
Cheryl’s pick: Ten in 2
Ricky choice: Ten in 2
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