Novak Djokovic flew out of Australia after losing a court appeal on Sunday (January 16). There has been a big debate over the Serbian’s availability in the Australian Open and amid this chaotic scenario the 2022 Australian Open is scheduled to start on Monday (January 17) with an essence of excitement and a sense of joyousness.
Expectations will now be high on who will take the baton for the future in men's tennis as the likes of Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev, Alexander Zverev gear up for the first major of the year. With only Rafael Nadal playing in the tennis event from the famous trio, this presents a perfect opportunity for the emerging stars to stamp their authority on the world of tennis. Medvedev and Zverev now have the required experience to go over the line in the major tournaments, the Russian defeated Djokovic in the US Open final while Zverev won the Gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
23-year-old Steafnos Tsitsipas can be another promising contender to do something significant this time. Tsitsipas known for his ability to defeat the big names in the tennis court can undoubtedly pull off another major heartbreak in this year's Australian Open.
Rafa's most signifcant title
Nadal’s next major will see him go past Roger Federer and Djokovic, for most men's singles titles. The only worry is, he hasn't won this prestigious tournament since beating Federer in the final of 2009. The veterans like Marn Cilic, Andy Murray (wildcard) can still give a run for the money but they are well past their peaks now.
Unlike the men's draw, the women's section can indeed bring an element of surprise. In 2021, the women’s section saw no uniform winner as the sense of unpredictability still remains to exist. No. 1 seed and home favourite Ashleigh Barty will be the favourite as she will have a huge pressure of expectations.
Osaka's chances
Defending champion Naomi Osaka already has plenty of experience, seeded ninth, she will have a quest in her hands to draw her name on the trophy for the third time in four years. It has been nine long years since the ladies' singles title was last defended by Belarusian Victoria Azarenka in 2013.
Apart from Osaka, World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka will surely be a contender to clinch the title this time. 28-year-old Garbine Muguruza, currently holding third rank in the world can also provide something significant in this year's Australian Open.
Fourth seed Barbora will be one of the favourites to clinch the trophy and start the new year in a convincing manner.
The likes of US Open champion Emma Raducanu, Sloane Stephens can provide something surprising while veterans and former champions like Victoria Azarenka and Sofia Kenin can't be underestimated because of their experience.
The first-round matches will kick start on Monday (January 17) in Melbourne.
