The final day of Australian Open first round action continues at Melbourne Park on Tuesday with veteran Grigor Dimitrov taking on Tomas Machac and American Alex Michelsen taking on Karen Khachanov.
Grigor Dimitrov vs. Tomas Machac
This is an unlucky first round match for Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov. Tomas Machac just missed out on a seed in Melbourne, but is now ranked 24th in the world thanks to his tournament win in Adelaide last week. In short, he comes into this match with hot hands, and Dimitrov….doesn’t. Dimitrov won one game in his warmup match and lost to Raphael Collignon in the second round of Brisbane. The veteran won’t get a chance to relax at the Australian Open; Machac is simply playing very well.
Look for Machac to add another win to his 1-0 record against Dimitrov.
Cheryl chose: Machac on 4
Ricky pick: Dimitrov at 3
(15) Karen Khachanov vs. Alex Michelsen
Ironically, it was Alex Michelsen who sent Karen Khachanov packing from last year’s Australian Open. Khachanov is one of the quietest threats on the men’s tour. Somehow he’s never been in the conversation as a possible champion, but he still consistently hits the business side of the field in tournaments – including the majors.
This could be one of the best first round games on the docket in Melbourne. Khachanov did not start the season well, losing his opening match against Michael Mmoh in Hong Kong. As such, an upset could be on the cards. Michelsen made the semis in Brisbane and played well while doing so. Look for America to prosper.
Cheryl chose: Michelsen at 4
Ricky’s pick: Michelsen at 5
