Cerundolo F vs Zhang Zhizhen on January 18
On January 18, the Australian Open will witness an intriguing match between Francisco Cerundolo and Zhang Zhizhen. This encounter promises to be an exciting one, with both players bringing their distinctive playing styles to the fore. As the tournament progresses, each match becomes more critical in the quest for glory in Melbourne, and this clash will certainly have significant implications for both competitors. With Cerundolo coming off a solid season and Zhang striving for his breakthrough, the stage is set for a high-intensity battle. Who will rise to the occasion in this pivotal moment of the 2026 Australian Open?
Cerundolo F: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Francisco Cerundolo, a dynamic baseline player from Argentina, has been enjoying a strong season in 2025, showcasing his impressive versatility across different surfaces. His strong groundstrokes, especially from the backhand side, have been the key to his success, but it’s his improved serve that has caught the attention of many. Cerundolo’s baseline dominance and powerful groundstrokes, particularly when moving the ball deep into the court, have allowed him to dictate rallies. He is known for his consistency and his ability to generate significant topspin, which gives him a solid foundation in the long rallies that often dominate his matches.
Looking at Cerundolo’s recent form, he has won 4 out of his last 5 matches, with his only loss coming against a top-10 player in a tiebreak. Statistically, his first serve percentage is impressive at 74%, and his second serve, while not his strongest asset, has shown improvement, with a 59% win rate. His return game, a key aspect of his matchups against powerful servers, will be crucial in this tie. Cerundolo ranks in the top 20 for break-point conversion percentage, which indicates his sharpness when it comes to seizing crucial moments.
Key to Cerundolo’s form is his fitness and movement. His ability to cover the court, combined with his tactical intelligence, allows him to vary the speed of the game and outlast opponents in extended rallies. His forehand, though less destructive than other top players, has an accuracy that allows him to keep opponents on the defensive. However, if there’s an area for improvement, it’s his tendency to become too passive in certain situations, which could allow Zhang Zhizhen to take control of the match if the Argentine isn’t assertive enough.
Zhang Zhizhen: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Zhang Zhizhen, China’s top male tennis player, is an enigmatic talent, capable of playing both aggressive and defensive tennis at a high level. His serve remains his biggest weapon, and he ranks in the top 30 for aces on the ATP tour. Zhang’s biggest asset is his ability to dominate with his powerful groundstrokes, particularly his forehand, which allows him to dictate play from the baseline. However, he can struggle when opponents consistently force him to defend, which is where Cerundolo’s steady consistency could pose a challenge.
In terms of current form, Zhang has been solid but inconsistent, winning 3 out of his last 5 matches. His serve percentage sits at a solid 71%, but his second serve can be vulnerable, with a win percentage of only 55%. If Zhang’s first serve isn’t landing, Cerundolo, who thrives in long baseline rallies, could have an advantage. Zhang’s return game is decent, but he tends to be more effective when he can be aggressive off his opponent’s second serve, rather than being put on the backfoot by consistent returns.
Like Cerundolo, Zhang’s physical fitness will play a major role. He’s proven to have the endurance to grind out long matches, but his mental consistency remains a key factor. His ability to adapt and remain focused throughout the match will be essential against Cerundolo, who tends to wear down his opponents with his relentless style of play. While Zhang has moments of brilliance, his occasional lapses in focus could be costly, particularly in a high-stakes match like this one.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
These two players have faced off only once before, with Zhang Zhizhen narrowly prevailing in three sets in their previous encounter. However, it’s important to note that their styles are evolving, and the matchups will certainly play out differently this time. Both players have shown improvements in their games since their first meeting, with Cerundolo especially benefitting from his more aggressive baseline approach and Zhang continuing to refine his serve and consistency.
The psychological aspect of this match will be crucial. Cerundolo, with his steady demeanor, has a calm, tactical approach, while Zhang’s tendency to fluctuate between aggressive moments and occasional dips in focus could make him vulnerable. Cerundolo’s ability to stay in long rallies and his mental strength under pressure give him an edge in these types of matches, where concentration and consistency are paramount. Zhang will need to avoid lapses and stay sharp if he hopes to claim the win.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most exciting duels to watch in this match will be the battle from the baseline. Cerundolo’s topspin-heavy forehand against Zhang’s powerful, flat forehand will be the focal point of many rallies. Cerundolo will look to push Zhang to the back of the court with high, looping balls that invite errors, while Zhang will look to fire his forehand through the court to gain an advantage. How well Cerundolo manages Zhang’s serve will also be a pivotal factor, as Cerundolo’s return game will need to be sharp to expose Zhang’s occasional second-serve vulnerability.
The other crucial zone will be the net. Cerundolo has occasionally ventured into the net with mixed results, but he has an ability to close points efficiently once he’s in the right position. Zhang, on the other hand, is less comfortable at the net, and this could be an area where Cerundolo can exploit any defensive lapses. If Cerundolo can force Zhang into uncomfortable situations up close, it could tip the balance in his favor.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given the strengths and weaknesses of both players, the match will likely unfold in a series of long baseline rallies, with Cerundolo aiming to frustrate Zhang by extending points and working his way into the net when possible. Zhang’s power from the baseline will be tested, especially if Cerundolo can consistently return his first serve and extend rallies. Zhang’s key to winning will be his serve—if he can land a high percentage of first serves and dictate play early, he may take control. However, if his second serve is under pressure or if he becomes passive, Cerundolo’s consistency could prove decisive.
The most likely outcome will be a battle of attrition, with Cerundolo’s fitness and ability to handle long rallies giving him a slight edge. If Zhang struggles to sustain his focus or his first serve isn’t clicking, Cerundolo will seize the opportunity. I predict Cerundolo will win in straight sets, but Zhang will have his moments and could make things difficult, particularly if his serve is firing on all cylinders.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer one crucial question: Can Zhang Zhizhen maintain his consistency and take control of the rallies, or will Cerundolo’s relentless, tactical game wear him down? With both players eager to progress in the Australian Open, it will be a fascinating clash of styles—Zhang’s power against Cerundolo’s precision and endurance. The outcome hinges on the small margins of serve and return, and whoever can impose their game early will have a significant advantage.
