. Australian Open – Who to beat Aryna Sabalenka? The tournament favorites

. Australian Open – Who to beat Aryna Sabalenka? The tournament favorites
Tennis. Australian Open – Who to beat Aryna Sabalenka? The tournament favorites

Double title holder Melbourne, Aryna Sabalenka started its 2025 season in the best possible way by triumphing at WTA 500 of Brisbane. Firmly established on the throne of world number 1, with 1536 points ahead of his runner-up Iga Swiatekthe Belarusian appears to be the big favorite of theAustralian Open 2025. But who can challenge its supremacy?

Video – Australian Open – Aryna Sabalenka already on the courts:

Gauff ahead of Swiatek? Zheng to play spoilsport

Behind Sabalenkathe first name that stands out is not that ofIga Swiatekbut that of Coco Gauff. The American concluded her 2024 season in style with a title in the Masters and a sparkling form that it seems to have retained at the start of the year. Indeed, Gauff carried the United States to victory in United Cupwhere she was crowned tournament MVP. With five individual victories without conceding a single set, facing formidable opponents like Leylah Fernandez, Donna Vekic, Karolina Muchovaand above all Iga Swiatekthe American impresses. She also dominated the Pole in two sets during their last two clashes, ending a series of defeats which made Swiatek his pet peeve with 11 defeats in 12 matches.

For his part, Iga Swiatek will not approach Melbourne in the shape of his life. Despite generally encouraging performances in United Cupdoubts remain about its current level. Since his semi-final at theAustralian Open 2022, Melbourne no longer succeeds, elimination in the round of 16 in 2023, then a surprise defeat in the third round against Linda Noskova last year. Now coached by Wim Fissette, Swiatek nevertheless remains a formidable opponent despite a title drought since Roland-Garros.

Another player to watch closely is Zheng Qinwen. Finalist at Melbourne last year, the Chinese confirmed her rise among the world elite. Gold medalist at Olympics and finalist of the Masters at the end of the 2024 season, Zheng entered the Top 5 thanks to its constant progress. With her powerful serve and explosive game, she is one of the favorites, especially since she will have to defend big points.

Rybakina, Pegula, Muchova : les outsiders

Elena Rybakinanow accompanied by Goran Ivanisevicarrives as an outsider. Finalist in 2023 and recovering from her physical problems, the Kazakh has the weapons to create surprises, provided she remains consistent. Now out of the Top 5, she no longer benefits from the advantages of the main seeds and could cross swords with a favorite in the quarter-finals.

Jessica Pegulafor her part, particularly likes Melbourne. The American has reached the quarter-finals three times in the last four editions. Finalist at theUS Open last year, she finally broke the quarterback curse by Grand Slam. If her knee does not hamper her, she could again get involved in the fight for the title.

Finally, Karolina Muchova is a player to watch closely. Semi-finalist in 2021, the Czech has an atypical game, mixing slices, drop shots and variations, which can destabilize the best. After reaching the semi-finals atUS Open only two months after his return, A stream could well shine again in Grand Slam.

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