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One of the most exciting Australian Open seeds in the men’s event is due to compete against a local favourite. Of course, it’s Ben Shelton vs Christopher O’Connell on the cards for this second-round encounter, and there could be some serious fireworks. As for the top markets to consider, it’s all discussed below.
Our favourite Christopher O’Connell vs Ben Shelton predictions
Contents
With plenty of second-round matches scheduled for tonight, our tennis predictions today are full of intriguing picks. And specifically for this game, my O’Connell vs Shelton predictions point you towards a couple of markets that have very appealing odds:
Under 38.5 games @ 17/20 (1.85)
As the 16th seed, Ben Shelton is expected to go far in the draw this year. But his opponent in this one endured a gruelling five-setter in round one to get past Garin, while Shelton didn’t drop a set. This means O’Connell will be fatigued, and with the way that Shelton is playing, I can see this one being a straight-set blowout.
Shelton to win 3-0 @ 13/10 (2.30)
Since I’m gunning for a straight sets victory for Shelton, as reflected in the under 38.5 games pick above, I may as well back this up with a 3-0 prediction for Shelton. Adding to that, I was more than impressed with Shelton’s run in Melbourne back in 2023, so I know that he can deal with the feisty Australian crowd.
Therefore, this takes away the concern that the crowd could get under his skin and fire up their man.
Christopher O’Connell vs Ben Shelton odds
Based on the latest odds, O’Connell has a 23.80% chance of winning while the probability for Shelton is 81.80%.
Shelton set to confirm spot in round three at 2024 Australian Open
Want to read a bit more about these guys before placing your bets? Check out the previews below.
Christopher O’Connell preview
O’Connell is ranked 68 in the world right now, while Shelton is ranked 16. So with a more than 50 place difference between the two, O’Connell isn’t sitting pretty going into this match. And to make matters worse for the 29-year-old Aussie, he played for 4 hours and 21 minutes in the first round, so he will be feeling his legs, I’m sure.
Ben Shelton preview
In contrast to O’Connell’s first-round experience, Shelton beat a decent player in the form of Bautista Agut in 2 hours and 46 minutes. This may not seem a huge difference, but in the Melbourne heat, it all adds up. At the same time, Ben Shelton made the quarters last year, so he is experienced at this stage in the event.
O’Connell vs Shelton head to head
Since these two guys have never played one another before, there is nothing to work with concerning the head-to-head department. However, it will be 1-0 to one of these guys once the final ball is struck, and my guess is that it will be Shelton who comes away with the victory.
Key match details
- Match Schedule – January 17th, 04:00 GMT
- Venue – Melbourne, Australia
- Viewing Options – Eurosport, Discovery+
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