Australian Open Day 7 Predictions Including Swiatek vs Raducanu

We wrap up the third round of the Australian Open on Day 7, with eight women’s matches to decide who reaches Round 4. As always, us here at LastWordOnTennis will share their thoughts on all matches. We split the day’s eight matches between this and a separate article–featuring Emma Navarro vs Ons Jabeur. Predicting these matches are Jordan Reynolds, Manuel Traquete, and Andreas Pelekis. Who do you think will advance?

Australian Open Day 7 Women’s Predictions

Elena Rybakina vs Dayana Yastremska

Jordan:
The Australian Open brings out the best in Yastremska. Rybakina would probably back herself to win very comfortably at any other venue. The 2022 Wimbledon champion’s superior serve might still prove the difference, but Yastremska has a chance if her powerful groundstrokes are working.
Prediction: Rybakina in 3

Manuel:
Rybakina is a former finalist at this event and always one of the main favorites in every Slam she enters. She has been playing quite well so far in this tournament and should have the very clear edge here.
Prediction: Rybakina in 2

Andreas:
There should be plenty of winners and hard-hitting groundstrokes in this match, and both players have performed well leading up to this match. The Ukrainian has impressed, losing only six games despite the heavy pressure of facing semifinal points. However, Rybakina should have the tools and experience to win in two close sets. She’ll also use her reliable serve to get a hold on the match.
Prediction: Rybakina in 2

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Yulia Putintseva vs Daria Kasatkina

Jordan:
This has the potential to be the longest women’s match of the tournament. Both players rely on wearing down their opponents with repeated long rallies. While Putintseva possesses more variety, Kasatkina has been locked in so far and is backed to stay the course better.
Prediction: Kasatkina in 3

Manuel:
There’s very little to choose between both players and their previous matchups showed just how evenly matched they are, but Kasatkina is the slightly more consistent player and should have the slighest of edges going in.
Prediction: Kasatkina in 3

Andreas:
It’s been a great start to the season for the Kazakh, but Kasatkina has showcased an impressive array of counterpunching tennis this week and not losing a set. Look for her run to continue, given her two wins in this matchup and confidence.
Prediction: Kasatkina in 2

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Elina Svitolina vs Jasmine Paolini

Jordan:
Both women possess similar styles that combine great athleticism with a preference for attacking with their forehands. Paolini’s results last year show she implements it slightly better than Svitolina at her best. The Ukrainian will probably need to serve well to have a chance.
Prediction: Paolini in 2

Manuel:
It should be another very close matchup, but Paolini has quickly transformed herself into one of the most reliable and consistent Grand Slam performers and has the slight edge on paper.
Prediction: Paolini in 3

Andreas:
Paolini’s groundstrokes have particularly impressed at the Australian Open, and her 6-2 6-3 win over Renata Zarazúa on Thursday showcased that power. Svitolina will be fired up for this matchup, but the Italian has too much confidence right now. Her fast movement will also help her in the many long rallies that should be expected because of Svitolina’s defense.
Prediction: Paolini in 2

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Iga Swiatek vs Emma Raducanu

Jordan:
Raducanu’s performance against Amanda Anisimova in the last round was her best since returning from a severe injury at the start of last year. But she will need to be even better to have a chance against Swiatek. The world No. 2’s level in the opening two matches was the most impressive of any women’s player and she looks to be playing with freedom under new coach Wim Fissette.
Prediction: Swiatek in 2

Manuel:
Swiatek has won all eight sets that the pair have played and that trend should continue here. While she has often been upset in Slams outside Roland Garros, Swiatek is already an all-time great who looks primed to win many more Slams still, while Raducanu is yet to back up her US Open 2021 run.
Prediction: Swiatek in 2

Andreas:
This will likely be a primetime showdown that brings in a big TV audience and camaraderie. However, I don’t think Raducanu has the weapons to make this match that competitive. Swiatek hasn’t been challenged in her first two matches and has won all three of her matches against Raducanu historically. Unless the Brit can outhit Swiatek early on, the World #2 will reach the second week.
Prediction: Swiatek in 2

Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports