Australian Open R3 previews and predictions: Bautista Agut vs. Murray, Shelton vs. Popyrin

Andy Murray has been the feel-good story of the Australian Open so far, with a pair of unlikely but inspiring five-set wins. He will take on familiar foe Roberto Bautista Agut, while young American Ben Shelton will also be in action against Alexei Popyrin.

Andy Murray vs. (24) Roberto Bautista Agut

Five years ago Andy Murray faced Roberto Bautista Agut in the first round of the Australian Open. That match was thought to be Murray’s last as a professional player. The Scot was facing hip replacement surgery and a possible end to his career. That tournament even created a farewell video for Murray’s impending retirement. Fast forward to 2023 and Murray has put two massive five-set wins in the book, first over No. 13 seed Matteo Berrettini in the first round and then an epic, nearly-dawn victory over Thanasi Kokkinakis on Friday morning.

Bautista Agut’s path to the third round is less dramatic than Murray’s; then again, that’s true of every player left in the draw. The Spaniard engaged in a five-set battle with qualifier Brandon Holt, but Murray’s match was a shocking five hours and 45 minutes whereas Bautista Agut spent two hours and 56 minutes for his victory.

While the crowd will no doubt be squarely on Murray’s side of the court, it’s hard to imagine the 35-year-old recovering enough to withstand another best-of-five match against a player of Bautista Agut’s athleticism.

Cheryl pick: Bautista Agut in 4

Ricky pick: Bautista Agut in 4

Ben Shelton vs. (WC) Alexei Popyrin

Last spring, Ben Shelton was the 2022 NCAA mens champion. He played his first Grand Slam match at the U.S. Open, where he lost in the first round. He now finds himself in the third-round of his maiden Australian Open and facing a player he has a chance at beating. Shelton, the world No. 89, has never played Alexei Popyrin — hardly surprising since he has played 10 total matches on the main tour in his career.

Popyrin, ranked 113th in the world, earned a wild card to the Australian Open. He pocketed a big five-set, four-hour win over No. 8 seed Taylor Fritz in the second round. While they both snagged a win, it was Shelton with his straight-set victory over Nicolas Jarry who displayed the better, more efficient form. The American has a big, powerful game well-suited to the slower, low-bouncing courts in Melbourne.

Shelton has less experience, but this is absolutely a winnable match for the lefty. As an Aussie, Popyrin will have the crowd on his side — but Shelton is a likable player and he will have his share of fans rooting for him.

Cheryl pick: Shelton in 4

Ricky pick: Popyrin in 5