The time has finally arrived that everyone has been waiting for. It is the Australian Open and some of the best names in the world will be taking on against each other to lay their hands on the coveted title. One among them will be the home favorite Dane Sweeny. Coming with the backing of the home crowd, the young player will be going in with her head held high.

However, staying his way will be the Argentinean superpower of Francesco Cerundolo. With the stage set for an emphatic encounter, who among the two will make it further in the tournament? Let’s find out!

Dane Sweeny vs Francisco Cerundolo: Preview

Over the last year, Sweeny has shown a balanced performance on hard courts with a match record of 5 wins and 4 losses. His serve has been a key strength, winning 61.8% of service games, but his return game lags behind at 12.5%. Sweeny’s break point conversion stands at 50.0%, with 4 successful breaks out of 8 opportunities.

Unfortunately, his recent performance in the ATP Brisbane Singles 2024 didn’t fare well, as he suffered a defeat in the qualification round against the 84th-ranked Gregoire Barrere with a scoreline of 3-6, 0-6 on December 30.

On the other hand, Cerundolo has faced a tough time on hard courts in the last year, securing a 12-12 win-loss record. Despite a strong 73.9% in service game wins, his return game struggles at 24.2%.

Notably, he has a 45.7% success rate in converting break points. In his recent outing at the ASB Classic on January 9, Cerundolo faced a tough match against Muller in the round of 16, resulting in a 1-6, 1-6 defeat.

Sweeny vs Cerundolo: Head-to-head

When it comes to the head-to-head stats between the two players, the scores are level as the two have never faced off against each other. Thus the scores remain at 0-0 each. With a chance to claim victory in their first-ever meeting, both players will be looking to give their everything to secure a much-needed win and make their way into the second round.

Also read: Umpiring Controversy Casts Dark Shadow Over Holger Rune’s French Open Encounter Against Francisco Cerundolo as Video Replay Calls Grow Louder

Prediction: Francisco Cerundolo could start her Australian Open campaign with a crucial win

One thing is certain, these two will produce a tight match. However, as things stand, Cerundolo has a slight edge over her opponent. Coming into the tournament after some good performances in the recent few months, he will be looking to clinch the victory and secure his spot in the second round of the tournament.

However, having the backing of the home crowd could prove advantageous to Dane Sweeny and he could use it to prevail on top of his opponent. That being said, whom are you backing at the upcoming match? Do let us know in the comments below!

Watch this story:  42-Year-Old Venus Williams Spills the Beans About Serena Williams and Other Sisters’ Biggest Complaint About Her Fashion Style- ‘I Never Wear’