The potential for a third-round clash between Djokovic and Murray looms at the Australian Open. Djokovic, the top seed aiming for his 11th Australian Open title, was drawn against a qualifier or lucky loser for the opening round. If he advances, he could face Grand Slam champion Andy Murray in the third round. Djokovic, who holds 24 major titles, enters the tournament with an injury concern following a wrist issue at the United Cup, where he lost to Alex De Minaur.
Similarly, third seed Daniil Medvedev, a finalist in Melbourne in 2021 and 2022, begins against a qualifier. The Russian might encounter 27th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the third round, while Auger-Aliassime faces a tough opener against former world number three Dominic Thiem.
Seventh seed Tsitsipas faces a challenging start against former top-10 player Matteo Berrettini, with Djokovic a potential quarter-final opponent. Carlos Alcaraz, the only player to defeat Djokovic at a Slam last year, starts his campaign against French veteran Richard Gasquet.
In the women's section, top seed Iga Swiatek commences her journey with a rematch of the 2020 Roland Garros final against Sofia Kenin. The winner faces a tough second-round battle against either 2016 Australian Open winner Angelique Kerber or 2022 Melbourne Park finalist Danielle Collins.
Two-time champion Naomi Osaka faces a daunting task against French 16th seed Caroline Garcia in her first major since becoming a mother. Another notable matchup includes third seed Elena Rybakina, last year's runner-up, against former world number one Karolina Pliskova. Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, the second seed, enjoys a relatively easier start against a qualifier. /BGNES
