By Kamakshi Tandon

Richard Gasquet (FRA) [8] vs. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) Rod Laver Arena – 2nd match
Head-to-head 

A matchup between two flashy players who have been battling it out since their junior days, the deciding factor in this one will be mental. Strange as it sounds, that gives Gasquet the edge – he’s owned Tsonga for most of their playing days, including their only grand Slam meeting at Wimbledon last year when Tsonga was on a 33 out of 35 match-winning streak (ATP events qualifying and challengers).

Tsonga should be able to draw on a little confidence of his own, however, because he’s had a nice little run at this event after dispatching Andy Murray in the first round. A good day on serve will also help. Gasquet will have to focus on staying aggressive, trying to dictate play – and not choking.

Expect some superb winners but also some ups and downs from each player.

Prediction: Gasquet

Nicole Vaidisova (CZE) [12] vs. Serena Williams (USA) [7] Rod Laver Arena – 3rd match
Head-to-head

The two faced off here last year, with Serena getting a tough but ultimately routine win in the semifinals. She also won their following two encounters during the rest of the year. Still, Vaidisova broke her track record of never defeating top players at big events when she defeated Mauresmo at Wimbledon last year, and has been moving quietly but steadily through the draw.

If Serena serves like she did in her last match, it’s tough to see Vaidisova getting enough chances to pull off a victory. But if Serena is a little off, the big-hitting, big-serving Vaidisova definitely has the tools to give her a lot of trouble.

Prediction: Serena Williams

Mikhail Youzhny (RUS) [14] vs. Nikolay Davydenko (RUS) [4] Vodaphone Arena – 4th match
Head-to-head

Given that Davydenko seems to be spending most of his free time sitting around the media restaurant giving vociferous interviews about match-fixing, it’s a wonder he’s got this far.

But since he has got this far, this is a pretty good matchup for him. He’s never lost against his compatriot Youzhny, and should be well rested after having three easy matches to. Youzhny has also had a pretty easy road and can be hard to stop when in the zone, so it’s easy to see this one going long.

Prediction: Youzhny