Australian Open Day 5 preview: Swiatek faces tough battle against Collins

The most recent encounters between Iga Swiatek and Danielle Collins ended in victories for the World No. 1, with Collins managing to win just a single game in two of those matches. However, in their last meeting in Australia in 2022, Collins secured a 6-4, 6-1 victory, propelling her into the final.

Collins, reflecting on her previous matches with Swiatek, expressed the hope for one of her best performances on the court, emphasizing the need to bring the best against top players. Despite the challenging bracket, Collins acknowledged the depth and high level of women's tennis.

Swiatek faced a tough challenge in her first-round win over Sofia Kenin, securing a 7-6 (2), 6-2 victory. Swiatek, on a 17-match winning streak, has dominated with numerous 6-0 sets in the past year. Collins, known for her success in Melbourne, poses a potential obstacle for Swiatek.

Emma Raducanu marked a successful return to the Australian Open, winning her match against Shelby Rogers. Raducanu highlighted the contrast from the previous year, expressing more calmness and level-headedness after dealing with health challenges.

Emma Navarro has had a remarkable start to 2024, winning nine out of ten matches and claiming her first career title at the Hobart International. The 22-year-old American, seeded No. 27, continues her impressive performance, facing Elisabetta Cocciaretto in the next round.

Victoria Azarenka, with extensive experience, reached the second round for the 13th time at the Australian Open. She emphasized the talent of younger players like Clara Tauson but noted the importance of consistency and development. Azarenka aims to secure her 95th hard-court major win, equaling Martina Hingis and Maria Sharapova, in her upcoming match against Tauson.