Elena Rybakina defeated Elisabetta Cocciaretto 7–5, 6–3 in the first round of the Australian Open on hard court on 16 January 2023, confirming her status as the pre-match favourite with odds of 1.34 to Cocciaretto's 3.41. Rybakina's composed performance across both sets reflected the expected outcome, with the Kazakh player maintaining control throughout to advance without significant resistance. The opening set proved competitive until Rybakina broke clear late, whilst the second set saw her dominance increase as Cocciaretto's challenge faded. This straightforward victory positioned Rybakina well for her second-round encounter.