Australian Open 2012: 3 Must-See Second-Round Matches

The second round of the Australian Open, or any Grand Slam for that matter, doesn't usually provide a ton of thrills.

There are still too many players remaining for the matchups to be very close, but that doesn't mean there won't be thrills. Just because the Top 10 seeds won't be challenged doesn't mean the excitement won't be alive in Australia.

Here's a look at some remaining second-round matches to keep your eye on.

Stanislas Wawrinka (21) vs. Marcos Baghdatis

The 26-year-old Wawrinka had a good run at Australia last year, making it to the quarters before being ousted by Mr. Roger Federer in straight sets.

On the other side of the court is Marcos Baghdatis, who also has been at his best in Australia. Don't forget he made the finals back in 2006.

Baghdatis may be ranked 44th, but he's going to give Wawrinka a run for his money.

Gilles Simon (14) vs. Julien Benneteau

The Frenchman Simon is 27 years old, but he's yet to make a real impact on any of the Grand Slams. His best finish, however, was in Australia in 2009 when he made the quarters.

Nonetheless, he's still ranked 14th and remains a very good player.

He faces fellow Frenchman Julien Benneteau, who at 30, has had a pretty underwhelming career. Simon should roll in this one, but don't look past the 39th-ranked Bennetau who has risen 10 spots since the last rankings came out.

Alex Bogomolov Jr. (34) vs Michael Llodra

Bogie has had a pretty underwhelming career so far, as his best Australian finish is the second round. He has a chance to beat that as goes up against Llodra.

What's interesting in this matchup is that Llodra will be looking to prove that he can play in the singles tournaments.

In doubles, Llodra has won two Australian Opens in his career, and made it to the quarters last year. He also made it to the semis at the French Open and Wimbledon last year.

This matchup is likely full of mediocrity, but hey, that doesn't make it not interesting.