Australian Open Day 5 Best Bets, Men’s Predictions for Mensik vs Jodar, Khachanov vs Basavareddy

The second round continues on Wednesday at Melbourne Park, and there are plenty of matches to like from a betting perspective.

Let's look at a pair of Australian Open matches below.

Here are my previews and Round 2 Australian Open predictions for Jakub Mensik vs. Rafael Jodar and Karen Khachanov vs. Nishesh Basavareddy.

Australian Open Men's Predictions, Picks — Second Round

Mensik vs Jodar Odds

By Tudor Cosma

Mensik enters this match fresh off his title in Auckland, but his performance in the first round was far from flawless. This could be due to accumulated fatigue, but the fact that he dropped two sets to Pablo Carreno Busta is a cause for concern.

An even more negative aspect was his performance on his second serve; in that lengthy battle, he committed 19 double faults.

In general, he's been prone to double faults this year, recording three against Sebastian Baez and three against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in short, two-set matches.

Today, I expect the match to last at least four sets.

Jodar is among the most talented young players in the world. In the first round, he faced significant difficulties against Rei Sakamoto, seeing a 2-0 lead in sets erased before showing great mental strength in the decider.

He possesses a high level of self-confidence, and I believe he's capable of taking one set today.

Given the expected length of the match and Mensik's recent serving struggles, I believe Mensik will commit at least five double faults.

Pick: Mensik to Commit 5+ Double Faults

Khachanov vs Basavareddy Odds

By Tudor Cosma

Khachanov has often performed below his true potential, which is why he's frequently underestimated by specialists. While he hasn't claimed many major titles — with the notable exception of the Paris Masters — he remains one of the best players in the world and has a well-deserved presence in the top 20.

In the first round, he survived a grueling five-set battle against Alex Michelsen, but it’s important to note that his opponent was of high quality. Throughout that match, Khachanov served well and generally appeared composed and confident.

Basavareddy enters this match as a qualifier. He had a difficult path to the main draw, having to fight back after losing the first set in tough matches against Sebastian Ofner and George Loffhagen.

His first-round victory here over Christopher O'Connell also went to five sets, a win secured largely because his opponent faded physically toward the end. However, Basavareddy had several shaky games during that match.

I believe Khachanov's experience and superior consistency will show today. My prediction is for Khachanov to win with at least a two-game handicap.

Pick: Khachanov -1.5 Game Handicap