On January 18, 2026, the Australian Open will feature a compelling match between Elise Mertens, currently ranked No. 21 in the world, and Lanlana Tararudee, ranked No. 131. This encounter is part of the Round of 128 at Melbourne Park, where Mertens enters as the clear favorite with odds of -350 against Tararudee’s +260. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+ and can also be streamed via Fubo.
This year’s Australian Open runs from January 12 to January 31, showcasing some of the best talents in tennis. Mertens’ impressive track record makes her a strong contender in this early round. According to data from BetMGM Sportsbook, the implied probability of Mertens winning the match stands at 77.8%.
Match Statistics and Recent Performances
Mertens has demonstrated consistent performance on hard courts, achieving a record of 17-12 in the past year. Her success includes winning one tournament on this surface. She has maintained a winning percentage of 73.9% in service games and has converted 42.3% of her break points, totaling 105 out of 248 opportunities.
In her most recent outing at the Kinoshita Group Japan Open, Mertens faced Tereza Valentova, but was eliminated in the Round of 16 with a score of 4-6, 1-6. This defeat may serve as motivation as she prepares for her match against Tararudee.
On the other hand, Tararudee has struggled to capture titles on hard courts, ending the past year with a 10-6 record. Despite a solid service game winning percentage of 69.4%, her return game has posed challenges, with a 41.3% success rate. In her last tournament at the AO Asia-Pacific Wildcard Playoff, Tararudee was eliminated in the semifinals by En-Shuo Liang with a score of 7-6, 1-6, 3-6.
Looking Ahead: Betting Odds and Predictions
As the match approaches, betting odds reflect the competitive nature of this sport. Mertens is not only favored to win the match but is also considered a potential champion of the tournament, with odds of +1800. Meanwhile, Tararudee’s odds to win the tournament are significantly longer at +20000.
The Australian Open continues to attract global attention, and as Mertens and Tararudee prepare for their clash, fans and bettors alike will be keenly watching for the outcome. This matchup not only highlights individual skill but also underscores the unpredictable excitement of tennis at one of its most prestigious events.
As always, those engaging in sports betting are reminded to wager responsibly, ensuring they only bet amounts they can afford to lose. The thrill of the game is best enjoyed with a clear understanding of the risks involved.
