Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Australian Open match.
Elena Rybakina embarks on her Australian Open campaign following a challenging previous season. Persistent injuries in 2024 hampered her ability to deliver consistent results, yet the Kazakhstani player remains within the top 7 of the world rankings and has every chance of showcasing her high level. Emerson Jones has received a wild card for the home tournament. In 2024, she made significant strides, climbing over 400 positions in the rankings and securing her first ITF tournament win. However, at just 16 years old, this match will mark her debut at this level.
Elena Rybakina
Rybakina typically encounters little trouble against players outside the top 50 on hard courts. In five of her last six encounters on this surface, she has won with a handicap of six or more games. Her powerful serve and aggressive baseline shots pose significant challenges for less experienced opponents. Following a series of injuries and a coaching change, Elena is regaining her form, recently securing three wins at the United Cup, only losing to the world's top player Iga Świątek (6:7; 4:6).
Emerson Jones
Jones is just beginning her journey at the professional level, having secured only one win in her previous four matches. In four of her last six matches on hard courts, less than 19 games were played, highlighting her lack of competitiveness against stronger players. Her last five encounters with top players ended in straight sets.
Elena Rybakina vs Emerson Jones Prediction
Rybakina significantly outmatches Jones in terms of level, experience, and physical attributes. Elena rarely extends matches against weaker opponents, and her serve and powerful shots allow her to dominate from the onset. Based on her recent track record, in five of her last six matches against players outside the top 50, she has won emphatically. Therefore, we are backing a win for Rybakina.
