Australian Open Quarterfinals: Sabalenka Faces Pavlyuchenkova, Gauff Takes on Badosa

MELBOURNE, Australia — The Australian Open quarterfinals are set to deliver high-stakes drama as top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka faces Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, while Coco Gauff battles Paula Badosa in a clash of rising stars. The matches, scheduled for Jan. 21, 2025, promise to showcase the best of women’s tennis as players vie for a spot in the semifinals.

Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, enters the match with a nine-match winning streak, including a dominant 6-1, 6-2 victory over Mirra Andreeva in the fourth round. Despite her recent form, Sabalenka trails Pavlyuchenkova 2-1 in their head-to-head record, though their last meeting was in 2021 before Sabalenka claimed her first major title. Pavlyuchenkova, the 27th seed, has shown resilience in Melbourne, saving crucial break points and advancing with confidence.

“Sabalenka is in her prime, but Pavlyuchenkova has the experience and power to challenge her,” said a tennis analyst. “This could be a tight match if Pavlyuchenkova can maintain her level.”

In another marquee matchup, Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, takes on Paula Badosa, who is making a strong comeback after a challenging 2023 season. Gauff, who has won 11 consecutive matches, is favored but faces a tough opponent in Badosa, who has shown flashes of her former top-2 form. Their head-to-head record is tied at 3-3, with Gauff winning their last two encounters in 2024.

“Badosa has the game to trouble Gauff, especially with her aggressive baseline play,” said a commentator. “But Gauff’s defense and ability to handle pressure could be the difference.”

On the men’s side, Alexander Zverev and Tommy Paul will clash in a battle of contrasting styles. Zverev, the world No. 2, seeks to avenge his two previous losses to Paul, while the American looks to continue his impressive run in Melbourne. Paul, a semifinalist at the 2023 Australian Open, has been in solid form, while Zverev has been steady, dropping just one set so far.

“Paul has the athleticism and versatility to challenge Zverev, but Zverev’s consistency and serve make him the favorite,” said a tennis expert.

As the tournament reaches its climax, fans can expect thrilling matches and potential upsets as players fight for a place in the semifinals.