<p>Newly minted Australian representative Daria Kasatkina will tangle with Czech rising star Nikola Bartunkova in the first round of the<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/australian-open/predictions/ladies-draw-2026"> Australian Open Ladies draw</a> today.</p> <p>Daria Kasatkina enters Melbourne Park carrying an impressive 11-match winning streak in Grand Slam first round encounters. Her consistency at the start of major tournaments has been nothing short of exceptional, establishing her as one of the most reliable performers when the opening rounds commence.</p> <p>Kasatkina's dominance extends beyond just match wins, with the world-ranked player claiming the opening set in each of her last eight Grand Slam first round matches.</p> <p>This statistical dominance suggests she arrives at tournaments well-prepared and focused, often overwhelming less experienced opponents with her tactical nous and court craft.</p> <p>Standing opposite her is Nikola Bartunkova, who faces the challenging task of ending Kasatkina's remarkable streak.</p> <p>The Czech player will need to produce something special to upset the established order, particularly given the gulf in experience between the two competitors.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Kasatkina vs Bartunkova Betting Tips</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Match Betting</h3> <p>The head-to-head odds heavily favour Kasatkina at $1.38, with Bartunkova priced as a $3.00 outsider. These odds accurately reflect the significant disparity in Grand Slam experience and current form between the two players.</p> <p>Kasatkina's perfect record in her last 11 Grand Slam first rounds speaks volumes about her ability to handle the pressure and expectation that comes with being heavily favoured.</p> <p>Her consistent performances at this stage suggest she rarely suffers from early tournament nerves or complacency issues.</p> <p>While Bartunkova possesses the talent to cause problems, the statistical evidence strongly supports backing her opponent.</p> <p>Kasatkina's proven track record of navigating opening rounds successfully makes her the logical choice despite the short odds.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/ladies-australian-open/daria-kasatkina-v-nikola-bartunkova-10048375">Daria Kasatkina.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Set Betting</h3> <p>Given Kasatkina's dominant first round record and her streak of winning opening sets, a straight sets victory appears the most likely outcome.</p> <p>Her ability to establish early control has been a consistent theme throughout her recent Grand Slam first round appearances.</p> <p>Bartunkova will need time to settle into the match and find her rhythm against such an experienced opponent. By the time she adjusts to the pace and intensity, Kasatkina should have already secured a commanding advantage.</p> <p>The odds favour Kasatkina to win 2-0 at $1.96, representing solid value given her recent dominance in similar situations.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/ladies-australian-open/daria-kasatkina-v-nikola-bartunkova-10048375">Daria Kasatkina 2-0.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Total Match Games</h3> <p>The total match games line has been set at 20.5, with both over and under options priced similarly around $1.83-$1.89.</p> <p>If our prediction of a Kasatkina straight sets victory materialises, the match is likely to conclude efficiently without extended rallies or lengthy sets.</p> <p>Kasatkina's ability to close out first round matches suggests she won't allow Bartunkova extended opportunities to extend games.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/ladies-australian-open/daria-kasatkina-v-nikola-bartunkova-10048375">Under 20.5 total match games.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>*Odds are subject to change</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Where to Watch the Kasatkina vs Bartunkova Australian Open Match?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>For those in Australia, you can watch the 2026 Australian Open First Round match between Daria Kasatkina and Nikola Bartunkova on the Nine Network.</p> <p>Available on both free-to-air on Channel 9, and 9Gem, you can also watch the match online on 9Now.</p> <p>Alternatively, you can stream the first round action on streaming service Stan Sport.</p>