What a thrilling matchup we have here folks, it's the vivacious Vekic versus the grand ol' lady of Russian tennis, Pavlyuchenkova. This should give your popcorn a reason to be nervous.
Now, Vekic might be looking to crack the whip, she's been paddling smoothly through the tournament, impressing with her dominant display. Despite a hiccup or two in recent times, you can make no mistake, she's not here for the weather. A final showdown with Parry D in just two bar bequeuing sets gave the fans something to cherish about. However, a couple of faceplants against Putintseva Y recently is certainly a blemish on her resume.
Talking of Pavlyuchenkova, she seems to be riding on an elevator with some turbulence. She did put Siegemund L, Potapova A and Yuan Y in their places recently. But the memory of losing to Vondroušová M and Świątek I isn't something she fondly remembers while brushing her teeth, I'm sure.
With all factors considered, including how Melbourne Park prefers fast and furious rallies like a movie sequel, this is going to be a match that could cause the line at the betting counter to take a twist.
Remember their cheek to cheek dance in September 2023? Pavlyuchenkova came out on top with love to spare. Payback time, Vekic?
Let's get down to brass tacks here. My prediction? Drum roll please...I present to you...
Albert’s Prediction: Vekic in 3 sets.