Jannik Sinner vs Botic Van de Zandschulp Prediction: The guys haven't crossed paths on the tour yet

In the Australian Open, world No. 4 Jannik Sinner will face Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp, now world No. 59. The guys have not crossed paths on the Tour before, and bookmakers have little doubt that the Italian will win the opening round match of the Australian Open.

Jannik was the hero of the Davis Cup last year; Sinner led his team to the title, winning three out of three matches at the tournament against Griekspoor, Djokovic, and De Minaur. Sinner played two exhibition matches in January, defeating Ruud and Polmans in two sets and very confidently, showing that he was in top form before the start of the AO. It should be noted that Jannick is one of the main favorites for the Majors; bookmakers consider higher chances only Djokovic and Alcaraz.

The Dutchman played two tournaments before the AO-2024 in Hong Kong and Auckland, where he achieved two wins and two losses. In Hong Kong, Botic lost to China's Shan, while in New Zealand, he lost in two sets to little-known Chilean Tabilo. The current tone of the Dutchman raises questions; we doubt that Botic can now give a fight to the world No. 4.

We believe Jannick will start the first Major of the season with a confident victory over Dutchman Botic. Sinner ended last season at a Major, with his team winning the Davis Cup. In 2024, the Italian played two exhibition matches, defeating Polman and then Casper Ruud in two sets. So there is little doubt that the Dutchman has no chance of winning on Sunday; we doubt that Botic will be able to take at least a game from Sinner.