Australian Open 2013 Bracket: Showcasing Most Intriguing Storylines

The 2013 Australian Open has kicked off down under, and there are a few major storylines to follow.

The first Grand Slam of the year always brings the feeling that tennis is back, but this Grand Slam is missing one key element.

As things heat up and the tennis season gets in full swing (pun intended), this is what to watch for down under.

Who Is the Best Player in the World?

Last year, there was no dominant player who owned men's tennis.

There was a different winner at each Grand Slam event, and who the best player in the world is right now is up for debate.

Novak Djokovic seemed like a lock about 10 months ago. However, Roger Federer has since made a push, Rafael Nadal showed signs of brilliance and the rest of the pack closed the gap.

Hopefully, this event will shed some light on who the player to watch is this year.

Can Anyone Stop Serena?

Serena Williams has gotten used to winning again after closing out 2012 with championships at Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, the WTA Championships and the London Olympics.

Williams has been incredibly dominant as of late, and now we are left to wonder if anyone can stop her.

There are certainly some challengers in the field, but will anyone actually take down the American? 

Will the American Women Outshine the Men?

Speaking of dominant Americans, have the women finally surpassed the men?

Serena Williams leads the pack of women down under, but sister Venus, newcomer Sloane Stephens and young guns Jamie Hampton, Madison Keys and Lauren Davis are all getting better with each set.

The men are beginning to fall apart as well, as Mardy Fish, John Isner and company are all starting to fade into the background.

What Does the Absence of Rafa Mean?

Rafael Nadal won't be part of the 2013 Australian Open due to an injury, and that sparks questions.

With Nadal out, it looks like Federer and Djokovic are on a collision course to meet in the finals. Does this open up the door for younger players? Is the Big Three becoming vulnerable?

Without Nadal, it will be interesting to see how this one plays out.

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