As the preparations for the Australian Open go on, Juan Martin Del Potro faces Lukasz Kubot in his first match of 2012.

Juan Martin Del Potro comes into 2012 after being ATP's Comeback Player of the Year as he started 2011 at a low 257, but ended it just outside the Top 10 at No.11. With couple of titles last year at Delray Beach and Estoril, Del Potro definitely looks to be on the right track and is a very strong contender to finish the year inside the Top-10. He also had good outings at other tournaments too in 2011 and would be hoping to out perform himself in 2012.                                                           

Polish Lukasz Kubot comes into this match at No. 58 in the World. Kubot did not have an impressive 2011 with his most appreciated result coming at Wimbledon, where he reached the round of 16. Kubot had a good victory over Croat Ivan Dodig in the first round here. He beat Dodig 7-6, 7-5 in two very close sets. With Del Potro on the other side of the net, Kubot would have to play very well to have a chance at beating Del Potro.

The two haven't played against each other yet, but, it looks like Del Potro has the upper hand in this match.