Ben Shelton vs Valentin Vacherot Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | Third Round
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
Ben Shelton faces Valentin Vacherot at the 2026 Australian Open.
Start date/time:
Venue: Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia
Surface: Outdoor hard
How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – ESPN
How to watch online: UK – discovery+ / USA – ESPN+ & Tennis Channel
Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Ben Shelton vs Valentin Vacherot ticket information
Ben Shelton vs Valentin Vacherot prediction
Ben Shelton could come under threat in his latest intriguing match-up at his best-performing Slam.
The 2025 semi-finalist is targeting a place in the round of 16 for the third time in four visits but is yet to truly find his top gear since a shoulder injury at the US Open derailed what looked like being an exciting conclusion to last season.
The eighth seed has served well so far, clocking up three-set wins against both Ugo Humbert and qualifier Dane Sweeny, but just where his level is truly at, may be tested by Valentin Vacherot.
The Monegasque’s career has sky-rocketed since lifting the Shanghai Masters as a qualifier and he has proved that success is not a one-off with strong results since.
A run to the last eight in Adelaide has been followed by efficient, workman-like victories over Rinky Hijikata and Martin Damm at Melbourne Park.
The 27-year-old is very much a late bloomer as he features in just his second main draw at a Grand Slam (previously reaching in the first round at the 2024 French Open).
There’s no doubt he enjoys being the underdog and while Shelton’s serve should be the trump card in a best of five, there could be good value in tipping Vacherot to nick a set.
Ben Shelton vs Valentin Vacherot tip: Ben Shelton to win
