Australian Open: Tiafoe vs Shang Juncheng Tennis Prediction

TennisSection previews the 2023 Australian Open as Frances Tiafoe takes on Shang Juncheng in the Round of 64 on Wednesday, January 18, 2023.

Much of the discussion was centered around Frances Tiafoe’s multicolored kit following his first-round win. But take nothing away from his performance, because he was able to hold off a spirited fightback. Next up for ‘Big Foe’ is China’s history-making Next Gen star Shang Juncheng. Will the 16th seed prevail?

Frances Tiafoe appeared in total control of his first-round match against Germany’s Daniel Altmaier, establishing a two-sets-to-love lead. But just when it looked like Tiafoe was running away with it, he was pegged back and Altmaier finished a high intense rally by converting his set point with a stunning backhand down the line in the third-set tiebreak. The fourth set also went into a tiebreak, but Tiafoe was better prepared this time, putting some quality returns to hold off Altmaier.

Shang Juncheng, meanwhile, created a piece of history by winning his first-round match. The 17-year-old became the first Chinese man to win a main draw match at the Australian Open in the Open Era. After saving two break points in the first set, Shang dominated World No. 74 Oscar Otte to win in four sets. He will now come up against one of the dark horses to win the tournament in Frances Tiafoe.

Frances Tiafoe and Shang Juncheng have not played each other on the ATP Tour. Wednesday’s match at the Australian Open will be their first official meeting. Shang is a future star in the making, having dominated the junior circuit in his young and storied career. But this will be a momentous occasion for him to play one of the best tennis players at this point in time. While it will be an experience unlike any other, Tiafoe should be too strong for his liking.