Coco Gauff vs Leylah Fernandez: Preview, match details, prediction, and where to watch the Australian Open 2025 third-round encounter

Coco Gauff continues to showcase her exceptional form in 2025, carrying forward her dominance from the WTA Finals and the United Cup. With a stellar start to the Australian Open, Gauff secured two back-to-back straight-set victories, first against Sofia Kenin, followed by a commanding performance against Jodie Anna Burrage. Currently riding a nine-match winning streak, Gauff is now set to clash with World No. 29 Leylah Fernandez in the third round at Melbourne's Margaret Court Arena on Friday, January 17. The American sensation’s impeccable performances this season have cemented her position as one of the tournament favorites as she has yet to drop a set in 2025 season.

Fernandez, on the other hand, has demonstrated resilience to reach the third round for the first time in her Australian Open career. After a challenging three-set battle against Cristina Bucsa, where she fired 30 winners, the Canadian will look to build on her momentum. However, facing a red-hot Gauff presents a formidable challenge. With the two having met only once before, during the United Cup, where Gauff triumphed convincingly 6-3, 6-2, this rematch is bound to be an intense showdown.

Coco Gauff’s red-hot form and Fernandez’s challenge
Gauff’s 2025 campaign has been nothing short of extraordinary. Undefeated so far, the 2023 US Open champion has displayed exceptional prowess on hard courts, with a 37-10 record over the past year. Her precision and adaptability have made her a serious contender for the title and potentially the World No. 1 ranking by the end of the fortnight.

Fernandez, meanwhile, has been inconsistent, as highlighted by her 40 unforced errors and seven double faults against Bucsa. To compete against Gauff’s steady and aggressive play, Fernandez must minimize errors and capitalize on opportunities.

Prediction and Where to Watch this Australian Open 2025 encounter
Given her current form, Coco Gauff is the favorite to secure another straight-set victory. Fans can catch the live broadcast on Sony Sports Network in India, Eurosport in the UK, and ESPN and Tennis Channel in the US.

Streaming options include SonyLiv, Discovery Plus, and Fubo. The clash between these two young talents promises high-octane tennis, but all eyes will be on Gauff as she inches closer to Australian Open 2025 glory.