Three to See, Australian Open Day 3: Rybakina vs. Pliskova, Dimitrov vs. Fucsovics, Collins vs. Kerber

Elena Rybakina vs. Karolina Pliskova

Tall, tenacious, talented. Three words describing players on both sides of the net. While Rybakina is in a greater spotlight than Pliskova these days, the seasoned veteran cannot be counted out. Pliskova is still a feared competitor, her game just as powerful and pointed as always. And, on the right day, downright deadly.

Their games are of similar description, too. Powerful serves, dictating groundstrokes, and even a calmer exterior throughout game play. Some might say it’s Pliskova facing her younger self.

Rybakina is the favorite going into this first-rounder, but Pliskova can’t be overlooked. Her dedication to the tour makes her dangerous, so Rybakina must remain grounded and collected in order to make it through to the other side.

Grigor Dimitrov vs. Marton Fucsovics

This match is a tennis treat, and it would be suitable for the later rounds. Lucky for us, if not the competitors, we get it right away. Their game styles aligned, they're at similar points in their careers, and have both found success during the hard and grass seasons. Last year, Dimitrov was 16-10 on hard courts, and Fucsovics 17-11. (Both went 7-2 on grass.)

So, who wins? The outcome should skew in Dimitrov’s favor after his first tournament of the year resulted in his first title since 2017. The rush of emotions for Dimitrov was felt no matter where you watched his triumph. Look for him to carry this momentum into the first Slam of the year.

Danielle Collins vs. Angelique Kerber

What happens when two power-hungry, hard-hitting tennis veterans battle it out in a first-round match? There’s a popcorn shortage around the world.

When Collins, a former Aussie Open finalist, steps out onto the court, the atmosphere is fiery and fierce. And when Kerber—a former champion—is around? The atmosphere’s just as flammable, only with a lefty twist.

Kerber’s return to tennis is definitely high on everyone’s watch list, especially since Germany’s United Cup run at the beginning of the season. She remains a fan favorite wherever she play.

Thankfully for Collins, her intense attitude will help carry her through this first-round nail biter.