The Grand Slams, apart from their prestige, are also known for creating iconic matches. One such match is lined up at the on-going Australian Open 2021 between Dominic Thiem and Nick Kyrgios. The duo will battle at the John Cain Arena in Melbourne Park on Friday to qualify for the fourth-round.

The Austrian World No. 3 Dominic Thiem will be going into the match on the back of two straight-sets wins. He recently defeated Germany’s Dominik Koepfer 6-4, 6-0, and 6-2.

However, the Australian World No. 47 will stand against him as more than just a local challenger. In his last match, Nick Kyrgios stunned France’s Ugo Humbert 5-7, 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (7-2), 6-4, saving two match points.

Read More: ‘Destroy Him Nick’: Crowd Backs an Emotional Nick Kyrgios to Beat Dominic Thiem at Australian Open 2021

Moreover, the crowd will religiously cheer for the Aussie hope. In addition to that, Nick also has a tremendous record against top players on the tour.

Indeed, it’ll be a battle of two rock-solid contenders of tennis.

Dominic Thiem v Nick Kyrgios: Head-to-Head

Apparently, the duo is yet to complete an entire match against one another. But, Thiem did face Kyrgios once in 2015 in Nice, France, where the Australian retired at 4-3 in that match.

While they have taken a long time to meet again, there couldn’t be a better stage set for them. The Austrian ace and the Australian professional will both be eager to get this win. Obviously, the winner will find a great boost to aim for the Australian Open 2021 title.

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Thiem v Kyrgios: Prediction

Considering the faster courts in Melbourne Park, the benefit of the surface edges towards Kyrgios. His lightning groundstrokes will play a key role in this match.

But Dominic is a survivor and more than that, a vigilant fighter. The 27-year-old Austrian will surely pose difficult questions with his one-handed backhands.

Between the two, the battle will be toe-to-toe, each fighting for the match. However, John Cain Arena is Kyrgios’s favorite court, where his fans will try to put Dominic under pressure.

While it is time for the reigning US Open champion to put his great skill on display, Kyrgios will need to bring his special game on the court to win this one.

The Australian support will give Nick a great advantage in the match. But, it is the 2020 Australian Open finalist Dominic, who can turn the crowd around with his talent.

Prediction: Dominic Thiem def. Nick Kyrgios in the final set.

MORE – WATCH: Nick Kyrgios Loses Cool and Destroys His Racquet at Australian Open 2021