The first round continues at the Australian Open with American Brandon Nakashima facing Botic van de Zandschulp on Monday. Top Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime, the seventh seed, steps up against Nuno Borges.
(7) Felix Auger-Aliassime vs. Nuno Borges
After a disappointing first half of the 2025 season, Felix Auger-Aliassime again closed the year in the top 10, with an impressive run at the US Open – where he reached the semifinals. The Canadian player has a good hard court game, although the Australian Open was not a successful Grand Slam for him.
First-rounder Nuno Borges, ranked 46th in the world, is a solid, consistent player — but he’ll have to lean on the FAA to help him. He does not have the power to trouble Auger-Aliassime if the world number 8 plays at his usual level.
Cheryl chose: Auger-Aliassime for 3
Ricky pick: Auger-Aliassime at 4
(27) Brandon Nakashima vs. Botic van de Zandschulp
American Brandon Nakashima has already started 2026 successfully. The world No. 30 reached the final in a warmup event in Brisbane a few weeks ago. He lost there to the former world no. 1 Daniel Medvedev. Nakashima is still looking for his first win in Melbourne, having lost in the first round of his last three matches – but he is an improved player now.
However, his Dutch rival, Botic van de Zandschulp, has disappeared since 2024. He’s ranked 75th in the world – and plays like one, to be honest. Nakashima is getting better despite going 0-3 at the Australian Open.
Cheryl chose: Nakashima at 3
Ricky pick: Nakashima at 3
