Day 6 at the Australian Open brings several intriguing women’s third-round matchups, featuring established stars, rising talents, and contrasting playing styles. Coco Gauff looks to continue her progression against fellow American Hailey Baptiste, while Zeynep Sonmez faces a stern test against the unpredictable Yulia Putintseva. Elsewhere, sensation Victoria Mboko meets the power of Clara Tauson, and Elina Svitolina takes on in-form youngster Diana Shnaider. Offering their insights and predictions are Zain Mustafa, Steen Kirby, and Jordan Reynolds. Who will book a place in the second week in Melbourne?
Australian Open Day 6 Women’s Predictions
Coco Gauff vs Hailey Baptiste
Zain: Making a career-best run at the Australian Open after being short on match wins and confidence should be a great boost to Hailey Baptiste. Unfortunately for her, all roads point toward a loss to fellow American Coco Gauff here, as Gauff is not only the better overall player in this matchup, but the gap is not particularly close.
Prediction: Gauff in 2
Steen: 5-1 on the year, Gauff is cruising right now. Baptiste won 22 matches last year and is an improving and in-form player, but Gauff should prove too strong at the moment.
Prediction: Gauff in 2
Jordan: Gauff played excellently in the previous round against Olga Danilovic. If the world No. 3 performs like that again, her compatriot Baptiste has no chance. Even at 50% of her best, Gauff will almost certainly prevail.
Prediction: Gauff in 2
Zeynep Sonmez vs Yulia Putintseva
Zain: Both players have taken similar paths to the third round, surviving tough three-set battles early before enjoying more routine second-round wins. The baseline battle will be key, as Sonmez will look to dominate the backhand exchanges, while Putintseva will try to open the court with her forehand variety. Having come through qualifying, Sonmez may be slightly better adjusted to the conditions.
Prediction: Sonmez in 3
Steen: Sonmez played well in qualifying after a career best year last year. Putintseva’s long career has only produced a 15-14 record at this tournament. The opportunity is there for the Turkish qualifier to reach the second week.
Prediction: Sonmez in 3
Jordan: Putintseva’s strong performances in Melbourne are notable after how much she struggled last season. I like the Kazakhstani’s chances of continuing her run here. Sonmez impressed in the previous round, but may struggle to handle the variety Putintseva brings.
Prediction: Putintseva in 2
Victoria Mboko vs Clara Tauson
Zain: A power baseliner up against a defensive player is always an intriguing contrast of styles. This match will depend on whether Clara Tauson can maintain aggression against the extra balls Victoria Mboko retrieves. Mboko should be able to test Tauson’s endurance and edge out a tight contest.
Prediction: Mboko in 3
Steen: Tauson continues to improve her performances, Mboko reached the Adelaide final and simply looks like an elite player right now. This is a great matchup, but Mboko has top 5 potential right now.
Prediction: Mboko in 3
Jordan: This will be an excellent gauge of Mboko’s current level. Tauson is one of the hardest hitters on the WTA Tour, so Mboko will need to rely on her athleticism and defense. I think she can successfully navigate this challenge.
Prediction: Mboko in 3
Elina Svitolina vs Diana Shnaider
Zain: While Elina Svitolina has looked sharp and composed so far, Diana Shnaider has played back-to-back closely fought three-set matches, which she was arguably fortunate to win. The difference in match time and freshness could be decisive in a baseline-heavy encounter.
Prediction: Svitolina in 2
Steen: 7-0 to start the year with a WTA title, after a 36-15 record in 2025. Shnaider has an excellent 6-2 record herself and was 28-25 last season. Shnaider would win against a lot of opponents but Svitolina has her sights set on a Grand Slam title at the moment.
Prediction: Svitolina in 2
Jordan: Shnaider saved three match points in dramatic fashion in the previous round, and that may give her confidence. However, Svitolina has been the better player throughout the tournament and should have too much consistency and control.
Prediction: Svitolina in 2
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