Considering our two contenders for this thrilling Round of 64 matchup at the good ol' Melbourne Park, get ready for some racket-based fireworks.
Gauff, seeded third in this prancing pony dance and tossing balls like she has a grudge against gravity, has been nothing short of spectacular lately. Look at her recent performance, she's kicking up a storm, leaving droves of surprised umpires and crying hawk-eyes in her wake. Even Sabalenka felt the sting of Gauff's tenacity just last November.
On the other side of the net, we have Burrage. She's yet to bag a seed this year, but, rest assured folks, she's no walkover. Her recent matches paint a picture of promising potential and shocking inconsistency. She's taking down opponents one moment and becoming the victim the next, a real rollercoaster of results if you ask me.
Looking back, the only time Gauff and Burrage squared off, Gauff handed Burrage a swift delivery of defeat. Burrage will have to dig deep to turn the tide in her favor this time around.
Considering Melbourne Park's tendency for high bounces and spin opportunities, it seems pretty much in Gauff's wheelhouse that is known to favor aggressive styles.
Now, let's not forget this love-stricken sport is unpredictable, just like my ex's mood swings. But judging by Gauff's consistent upper hand, and a little bird named Payout data whispering sweet nothings, I'm led to believe Gauff is the favorite here.
Albert’s Prediction: Gauff in straight sets.