The Australian Open heats up with two exciting third-round matches on Friday, as in-form Alexander Bublik takes on Tomas Martin Etcheverry and Tommy Paul takes on Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
(10) Alexander Bublik vs. Thomas Martin Etcherery
Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan may have set the remaining notice. He passed Jenson Brooksby and Marton Fucsovics, both dangerous players, in succession to earn his place in the third round. Bublik continues where he left off in 2025. He is undefeated this year, having claimed the title in Hong Kong earlier this month. The world No. 10 has historically been an unpredictable player — but when he’s locked in (as he appears to be right now), he’s one of the best players on tour.
Argentina’s Tomas Martin Etcheverry is unlikely to be the player to hand Bublik his first loss of the season.
Cheryl chose: Bublik in 3
Ricky pick: Bublik at 3
(14) Alejandro Davidovich Fokina vs. (19) Tommy Paul
The last time they met, American Tommy Paul fed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina three breadsticks. Incidentally, it was last year in Melbourne – and it was a nice addition to another Australian Open victory that Paul had in the ADF in 2023 (five sets).
However, don’t expect a reduction in this year’s program. First, Tommy Paul has not been sick for a long time. He played in the semi-final in Adelaide last week, but had to win two matches to do so. The Spaniard is a bit of an underdog here despite his superior position, due to his previous difficulties with Paul. I think Paul will finish it, but Davidovich Fokina will make him work for you this time.
Cheryl chose: Paul out of 5
Ricky choose: Davidovich Fokina at 5
