Australian Open 2012 Bracket: Predicting Most Exciting Matches for Jan. 18

The 2012 Australian Open has the feeling of a transitional year if I have ever seen one.

With legends like Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Serena Williams at less than 100 percent, the age of Novak Djokovic and Caroline Wozniacki has arrived in a big way.

Wednesday’s Round 2 action should be a microcosm of the whole event, which means tons of action with plenty of surprises. The Aussie Open is always a good show and this is what we’re watching for.

Tommy Haas (GER) vs. No. 2 Rafael Nadal (ESP)—Rod Laver Arena, 11:00 AM

With Novak Djokovic ahead of him and Roger Federer behind him in the world standings and in the Aussie Open draw, the pressure will be on for Rafael Nadal to step up and make a run.

People are beginning to doubt that Nadal’s physical condition will be able to hold up over the rigorous tennis season, so getting a big win out of the way early would go a long way in Nadal’s revival as the world’s No.1 male tennis player.

Nadal faces a tough opponent in the second round in Tommy Haas, though, but this will be a test that the tennis legend will pass with ease.

No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki (DEN) vs. Anna Tatishvili (GEO)—Hisense Arena, 11:00 AM

There is no question that Caroline Wozniacki is one of the best women’s tennis players in the world, but many critics feel that she needs to win a major before she is deemed the face of tennis.

With Serena Williams faltering and Maria Sharapova threatening no one, Wozniacki has a chance to steal the show and prove that her No. 1 world ranking is deserved.

The second test on that journey will be the tough playing of Anna Tatishvili. If Wozniacki can squeeze out a win and sneak into the third round, there is no reason she can win the whole tournament.

Andreas Beck (GER) vs. No. 3 Roger Federer (SUI)— Hisense Arena, 11:00 AM

What happens in the match between Roger Federer and Andreas Beck on Wednesday will be the test of what the Swiss Champion has left in his tank. He needs to play angry.

Whether it is the fact that his career is almost over or the fact that Rafael Nadal called him out earlier in the week, Federer needs to come into this round like a man on fire. If he plays with fire and can’t win, it’s over.

Federer owes it to himself and all of the people he supported to go all out one last time, and Andreas Beck will be his first real test. His career rides on every match.

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