<p><a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/ladies-australian-open/ladies-australian-open-winner-2026-8892430">The 2026 Australian Open</a> first round action continues on Tuesday with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/australian-open/news/australian-players-2026">another Aussie</a> in action in the shape of Maya Joint.</p> <p>Despite still being a teenager, Joint is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/australian-open/predictions/ladies-draw-2026">the highest ranked Aussie women</a> at the 2026 AO and is set to take on Czech competitor Tereza Valentova.</p> <p>While the betting markets suggest Valentova enters as the clear favourite, there's plenty of reason for Australian tennis fans to get behind their home-grown talent as Joint looks to make a statement on the Melbourne Park courts.</p> <p>Joint's recent form on Australian soil has been particularly encouraging, with the young Australian demonstrating resilience and tactical awareness in her domestic appearances.</p> <p>Her ability to adapt her game style to the unique conditions at Melbourne Park could prove crucial against a technically sound opponent like Valentova.</p> <p>The Czech player arrives in Australia with solid credentials and the odds in her favour, but first round matches at Grand Slams are notorious for producing upsets.</p> <p>Joint's familiarity with the courts, combined with the vocal support of the Melbourne crowd, creates an atmosphere that could work in her favour.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Maya Joint vs Tereza Valentova Betting Tips</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Match Betting</h3> <p>Despite Valentova being installed as the heavy favourite at $1.36, there's genuine value in backing Maya Joint at $3.07 for the outright victory.</p> <p>The Czech player's favouritism reflects her higher ranking and recent form, but first round Grand Slam matches often present different dynamics than regular tour events.</p> <p>Joint's preparation on home soil gives her a distinct advantage in terms of court familiarity and crowd support.</p> <p>The Australian has shown improved consistency in her recent matches, particularly in pressure situations. While Valentova possesses superior technical credentials on paper, Joint's fighting spirit and home-court advantage could level the playing field considerably.</p> <p>The odds suggest a significant gap between these players, but tennis rarely follows the script perfectly. Joint's aggressive baseline game and improved fitness levels make her a legitimate threat to cause an upset.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/ladies-australian-open/tereza-valentova-v-maya-joint-10048334">Maya Joint.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Set Betting</h3> <p>While a straight-sets victory for Joint at $4.75 offers excellent value, the more realistic scenario sees this match extending to three sets.</p> <p>Valentova's experience and ranking suggest she won't be easily dismissed, but Joint's home advantage should ensure she claims at least one set.</p> <p>The 2-1 scoreline in Joint's favour at $6.25 represents outstanding value for punters willing to back the Australian's chances. This betting option acknowledges Valentova's quality while recognising that Joint has the tools to push the match the distance and ultimately prevail.</p> <p>Joint's recent performances on Australian courts demonstrate her ability to raise her level when needed, particularly in deciding sets where her mental strength has been evident.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/ladies-australian-open/tereza-valentova-v-maya-joint-10048334">Maya Joint 2-1.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Total Match Games</h3> <p>The total match games line has been set at 20.5, with the under paying $1.93. This presents an interesting opportunity given Joint's recent statistical trends.</p> <p>Eight of Joint's last nine completed WTA main draw matches in Australia have gone under the total match games line, suggesting a pattern of either dominant performances or quick defeats.</p> <p>If Joint's aggressive style proves effective early, we could see a swift conclusion to this encounter. Alternatively, if Valentova takes control, her efficient game style could also produce a lower-scoring affair.</p> <p><strong>Betting tip:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/tennis/ladies-australian-open/tereza-valentova-v-maya-joint-10048334">Under 20.5 total match games.</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>*Odds subject to change.</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Where to Watch the Maya Joint vs Tereza Valentova Australian Open Match?</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>For those in Australia, you can watch the 2026 Australian Open First Round match between Maya Joint and Tereza Valentova 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 Australian Open match on streaming service Stan Sport.</p>