The Tennis Podcast Aus Open Draws - Winners, losers, picks and shocks
Jan 15, 2026
Draw day excitement at the Australian Open sets the stage for thrilling predictions! Sparks fly as potential first-round matchups like Sabalenka–Goff grab attention. The men’s draw ignites debates on whether Sinner can face Alcaraz again, with bold picks from David. Roger Federer's reflections on retirement and modern rivals steal the spotlight, showcasing his warm demeanor. With surprising twists, the hosts weigh in on underdog contenders and memorable matches ahead. Who will emerge victorious? Tensions rise as their predictions unfold!
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Draw Day Was A Public Success Despite Flaws
- The Australian Open draw created strong public engagement despite some execution flaws like sight-lines and broadcast cuts.
- Catherine Whitaker and Matt Roberts both praised the vibe while noting practical visibility problems that reduced clarity.
Women's Draw Is Open And Unpredictable
- Matt Roberts sees the women's draw as balanced with many viable contenders beyond the top seed.
- He rates Sabalenka as a confident pick but notes multiple potential threats make outcomes unpredictable.
Round-One Form Matters More Than Seeding
- David Law focused on first-round matchups and form when assessing the women's draw rather than only top-line projections.
- He mapped quarterfinals and champions but emphasised few obvious shocks given depth across sections.