Tommy Paul vs Aleksandar Kovacevic Preview & Prediction | 2026 Australian Open | First Round
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It's another all-American affair in Melbourne as Tommy Paul faces Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round.
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 Tommy Paul vs Aleksandar Kovacevic ticket information
Tommy Paul vs Aleksandar Kovacevic prediction
19th seed Tommy Paul has been a strong performer at the Australian Open in recent years, reaching the semi-finals in 2023 and the quarter-finals last year, where he lost to eventual runner-up Alexander Zverev.
The American took was active in both Brisbane and Adelaide recently, reaching the semi-finals of the latter, and will be hoping to continue his record of having never lost in the first round at the Australian Open.
Paul will take on compatriot Aleksandar Kovacevic, who is making his second appearance in Melbourne. Indeed, the 27-year-old's victory over Alejandro Tabilo in the first round two years ago remains his only Grand Slam victory.
Kovacevic enjoyed a strong run at the recent Brisbane International with a run to the last four, and could pose Paul some problems here. However, the class of the 19th seed should tell in the end.
Tommy Paul vs Aleksandar Kovacevic tip: Tommy Paul to win