Emma Raducanu was full of praise for Amanda Anisimova ahead of their Australian Open matchup, describing the world No. 35 as “a big ball striker who likes to dictate.”

On Tuesday, the British tennis star survived a very tricky opening match after beating 26th-seeded Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-6 (4) 7-6 (2).

But now. she is set for another tough matchup when she meets former world No. 21 Anisimova, who beat Maria Lourdes Carle in two sets in her first match in Melbourne.

In the past, Raducanu and the 23-year-old never clashed on the WTA Tour.

However, they did practice together so the Briton knows what to expect.

“She’s a big ball-striker. She hits the ball really hard. I practiced with her a couple of times. She likes to dictate. So I think it’s going to be a big challenge for me, of course,” the 2021 US Open champion said of the American.

“She’s had some amazing results, as well. She broke out really early. I’m looking forwardto going out there and testing my game and seeing where I’m at.”

Anisimova also had words of praise for Raducanu

Heading into their match, it wasn’t only the former world No. 10 who spoke highly of her next opponent.

When asked about the British tennis player, the American praised her personality but also game.

“She’s always bringing a good energy into the room. Also an amazing competitor. I’m looking forward to the match. I’m sure it will be a good one,” Anisimova said of her next rival.

If Raducanu wins her next match, she will reach the Australian Open third round for the first time in her career – in each of her first three runs at Melbourne Park, she was beaten in the second round.

On the other side, Anisimova has had more success in Melbourne since she made the round-of-16 in three of her first five Australian Open appearances.