Australian Open 2025: McCartney Kessler vs Zhang Shuai preview, head-to-head, prediction, and pick

Match Details

Fixture: Shuai Zhang vs McCartney Kessler

Date: January 14, 2025

Tournament: Australian Open 2025

Round: First Round (Round of 128)

Venue: Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia

Category: Grand Slam

Surface: Hardcourt (Outdoor)

Prize Money: A$ 96,500,000

Live Telecast: USA - ESPN & Tennis Channel | UK - Eurosport | India - Sony Sports & Sony Liv

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Shuai Zhang vs McCartney Kessler preview

Kessler at 2025 Hobart International - Source: Getty

The first Grand Slam of the year is underway, and in the first round of the 2025 Australian Open, China’s Shuai Zhang will face off against America’s rising star, McCartney Kessler. This intriguing encounter pits Zhang's experience against Kessler's youthful exuberance, promising an engaging match for tennis fans.

Zhang, currently ranked 26th, is one of the most consistent players on the WTA Tour. Known for her powerful groundstrokes and exceptional court coverage, Zhang has been a stalwart in Chinese tennis for over a decade. She reached the fourth round of the Australian Open in 2023 and her best came in the 2016 edition when she reached the quarterfinals. Zhang will be eager to make another deep run this year.

Meanwhile, McCartney Kessler, ranked 47th, is a newcomer to the big stage. With a strong serve and a developing all-court game, Kessler has the tools to challenge higher-ranked opponents. The American is coming off a title win in Hobart International. She made her major debut last year and reached the round of 64 in the Australian Open. Kessler is determined to go further in the tournament.

While Zhang brings a wealth of experience, Kessler's fearless attitude and hunger for success make her a dangerous opponent.

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Shuai Zhang vs McCartney Kessler head-to-head

This will be the first meeting between Zhang and Kessler, making their head-to-head record 0-0.

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Shuai Zhang vs McCartney Kessler prediction

The match is expected to be a clash of contrasting styles. Zhang's ability to dictate play with her flat, penetrating shots could give her the upper hand. Lately, she has not been in the best rhythm, but her experience in high-pressure situations and ability to adapt to her opponent's game make her a formidable competitor.

Kessler, however, will look to use her big serve and attacking mindset to unsettle Zhang. If she can maintain her composure and capitalize on her opportunities, she could push the veteran into uncomfortable positions. The American is high on confidence which can help her unrattle the Chinese.

Kessler’s red-hot momentum makes a strong case against Zhang’s experience. However, one can never undervalue the importance of knowledge in the big stages.

Pick: Kessler wins in a three-setter.