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, we here at LastWordOnTennis will share their thoughts on each match. We split today’s eight matches between this and a separate article – with Emma Navarro vs Ons Jabeur. Jordan Reynolds, Manuel Traquete and Andreas Pelekis predict these matches. Who do you think will move on?

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 to win very comfortably at any other venue. The 2022 Wimbledon champion’s superior serve could still prove the difference, but Yastremska has a chance if her powerful groundstrokes work.
Prediction: Rybakina in 3rd

Manual:
Rybakina is a former finalist at this event and always one of the main favorites in every Slam she enters. She has played quite well so far in this tournament and should have the 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 and has only lost six matches despite the huge pressure of semi-final points. However, Rybakina should have the tools and experience to win in two close sets. She will also use her reliable serve to clinch 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 on course better.
Prediction: Kasatkina in 3

Manual:
There is very little to choose between both players and their previous matchups showed how evenly matched they are, but Kasatkina is the slightly more consistent player and should have the smallest edge going in.
Prediction: Kasatkina in 3

Andreas:
It’s been a great start to the season for the Kazakh, but Kasatkina has shown an impressive array of counter-punching tennis this week, not dropping 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 have similar styles, combining great athleticism with a preference for attacking with their forehand. Paolini’s results last year show that she implements it slightly better than Svitolina at her best. The Ukrainian will probably have to earn well to have a chance.
Prediction: Paolini in 2nd

Manual:
It should be another very close matchup, but Paolini has quickly turned into one of the most reliable and consistent Grand Slam players and has the slight edge on paper.
Prediction: Paolini in 3rd

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

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Iga Swiatek vs Emma Raducanu

Jordan:
Raducanu’s performance against Amanda Anisimova in the final round was her best since returning from a serious injury early last year. But she needs to be even better to have a chance against Swiatek. World no. 2’s level in the first two games 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 2nd

Manual:
Swiatek has won all eight sets the pair have played, and that trend should continue here. Although she has often been upset in Slams outside of Roland Garros, Swiatek is already an all-rounder who looks set to win many more Slams still, while Raducanu is yet to be backed for her US Open 2021 run.
Prediction: Swiatek in 2nd

Andreas:
This is likely to be a primetime showdown that brings in a large television audience and camaraderie. However, I don’t think Raducanu has the weapons to make this matchup that competitive. Swiatek has not been challenged in his first two matches and has won all three of his matches against Raducanu historically. Unless the Brit can overtake Swiatek early, the world #2 will reach the second week.
Prediction: Swiatek in 2nd

Main photo credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports