Random thoughts about intriguing players at the Australian Open

There is much to like, even love, so much about Victoria Moboko—her solid strokes, competitiveness, athleticism, physique, and powerful serves and groundstrokes. I’ve predicted the 19-year-old Canadian will win a Grand Slam singles title this year, but it won’t happen at the Australian Open.

Besides inexperience, Victoria has minor technical and tactical liabilities.

First, she hits rocket groundstrokes. At that high speed, she should not hit them dangerously close to the sidelines. It's not necessary to hit winners and force errors, and it's low percentage.

Second, a bit more overspin on her second serve would help both for safety and variety.

Third, she should come to net more when she gets her opponent in deep trouble. Currently, she lets her opponent off the hook, and sometimes she ends up losing the rally.

Fourth, even though the mph of shots in her matches is very high, and drop shots are hard to hit against powerful shots, she should hit drop shots a bit more often, albeit less so on hard courts. Oncoming balls that are medium-speed, when she’s against the wind, and when she’s inside the baseline, are optimal times to drop shot.

Fifth, she should hit her approach shots harder, generally. The shortcoming is a bit surprising because she’s a power hitter. The key is to be as aggressive as possible without being reckless.

***** ***** *****

Former No. 6 Hubert Hurkacz underwent arthroscopic right knee surgery last July, and I predict he’ll return to the top 10 this year.

At first glance, Hubie’s game seems like that of No. 3 Alexander Zverev. Both are right-handed, possess booming first serves, and have strong backhands and forehands that aren’t elite-level.

In my view, Hurkacz is a better athlete and, importantly, a better volleyer. Besides injuries, what has prevented the 6’5” Pole from reaching his top 5 potential?

The first problem is tactical. He has a terrific first serve and a strong second serve. He also has an excellent volley, half volley, and overhead. These shots should complement each other more often. Put differently, he should serve and volley more often. He should also come to net more often behind groundstrokes to further capitalize on his top-notch volley, quick reflexes, and intimidating height and reach.

The second issue is both technical and tactical. He should become much more of a serve plus one attacker, a la Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Put differently, to beat them, he has to become and play more like them. That means Hubie has to improve and diversify his forehand. Perhaps a slight grip change toward Semi-Western would help. His forehand needs more spin, power, versatility, and unpredictability.

Right now, Hurkacz is an excellent player. To become a great player, besides these improvements, he needs to show more emotion to fire himself up and fire the crowd up to cheer him more and louder. Hubie: Think synergy!

Paul Fein -- Jan. 17, 2026