Herald tennis reporter Michael Burgess previews the second day of the Australian Open.
Don't miss: Lucas Pouille vs Gael Monfils This all French encounter has the makings of a classic. Monfils is always great to watch and the 28-year-old is coming off a solid year, where he returned to the top20. Pouille showcased his talent in Auckland last week and is much better than his No117 ranking suggests. Buckle in.
Don't bother: Serena Williams vs Alison Van Uytvanck Williams hasn't lost a first round match in 15 appearances in Melbourne and that pattern should continue here. The American is also desperate to make up for relatively poor showings over the last few years (fourth round 2012 & 2014, quarter final 2013). Belgian Van Uytvanck (world No106) will struggle to compete.
Worth a watch: Stan Wawrinka vs Marsel Ilhan His heroics of last year may have been forgotten but the defending champion remains a fantastic all round player. Wawrinka has one of the most beautiful backhands in the sport, which is enough of a reason to tune in. Ilhan hasn't beaten a top 100 player since 2011.
Also worth a watch: Sloane Stephens vs Victoria Azarenka This duo meet for the third consecutive occasion at Melbourne Park, in a rematch of the 2013 semi final. It could be a beauty. Azarenka (world No44) is one of the most dangerous floaters in the draw while Stephens (32) displayed hints of her talent in Auckland and will want to record her first victory over the Belarussian.
No worries for Novak? The top seed Novak Djokovic faces Aljaz Bedene (world No116). The Serbian has been struggling with illness in the build-up but this should be stroll; Djokovic has never lost to a player outside the top 100 at a Grand Slam.
Marina finds a berth Marina Erakovic is in action at 1pm (NZT) today, on court seven against world no24 Garbine Muguruza. Erakovic has progressed beyond the first round in two of the last three years here but the Spanish player is a formidable opponent.
Aussie, Aussie, Aussie Sam Stosur and Lleyton Hewitt lead the local charge.
Out the back 2015 Heineken Open quarter finalist Steve Johnson and ASB Classic seed Mona Barthel are among those banished to court 22, the furtherest from the action.
