Elina Svitolina proves she’s still a force to be reckoned with in 2025. The Ukrainian tennis star stormed into the quarterfinals of the Australian Open with a dominant 6-4, 6-1 victory against Veronika Kudermetova, showing her resilience and composure in Melbourne. However, the long-awaited duel with Elena Rybakina was disrupted when Madison Keys pulled off a surprise, beating the world number 6 in a dramatic three-set clash.
The brilliance of Svitolina’s return
Despite a difficult start against Kudermetova, Svitolina demonstrated why she was world number 3. Trailing 1-4 in the first set and having lost her serve twice, the Ukrainian reversed the situation with three consecutive breaks to win the set 6-4. From there, Svitolina was unstoppable, stringing together a series of five winning games in the second set to seal the victory.
Reflecting on her performance, Svitolina said: “It was complicated today at the beginning. But I’m very proud of myself for being able to find my way.”
The victory marks Svitolina’s fourth consecutive victory in Melbourne, improving on her perfect start to the season after beating Sorana Cirstea, Caroline Dolehide and Jasmine Paolini.
“All the matches I have played here, I am really happy with my physical form. I’m really happy with how I handled tough physical matches,” added the 30-year-old.
-Keys surprises Rybakina in dramatic fashion
Madison Keys, fresh from her title victory in Adelaide, delivered one of the biggest shocks of the tournament by toppling Rybakina 6-3, 1-6, 6-3. The American’s aggressive play and unwavering calm proved too much for the reigning Wimbledon champion.
Keys now leads their head-to-head matchup 3-2, but Svitolina has the advantage in Melbourne, having beaten Keys in their only meeting at the Australian Open in 2019. The upcoming quarter-final promises to be a battle of determination and power as both players pursue a coveted semi-final spot.
The path ahead
For Svitolina, this journey is a testament to her enduring talent and mental strength. After a difficult 2024, the Ukrainian seems rejuvenated and ready to regain her place among the sport’s elite. But Keys, riding a wave of confidence after her triumph in Adelaide, will not be an easy obstacle to overcome.
With a quarter-final clash on the horizon, fans can look forward to a thrilling encounter as two experienced competitors go head-to-head under the bright lights of Melbourne Park.
