Top Seeds Clash at WTA Adelaide International Quarterfinals

ADELAIDE, Australia – The WTA Adelaide International has reached its quarterfinal stage, with top seeds Madison Keys and Daria Kasatkina set to clash on Thursday, January 9, 2025. The hard-court tournament, held at The Drive in Adelaide, serves as a crucial warm-up for the first Grand Slam of the year, the Australian Open.

Madison Keys, ranked No. 20, enters the match as the favorite with odds of -225, while No. 9-ranked Daria Kasatkina is the underdog at +175. Keys, known for her powerful baseline game, has shown flashes of brilliance early in the season, including a strong run at the ASB Classic last week. However, she fell short in the quarterfinals against Clara Tauson, raising questions about her consistency.

Kasatkina, a crafty counterpuncher, has struggled with form recently, including early exits at the United Cup. Her ability to extend rallies and exploit Keys’ occasional unforced errors could be key to her chances. The head-to-head record between the two stands at 2-2, with their last meeting at the 2024 US Open ending in a tight three-set victory for Keys.

In another quarterfinal matchup, Veronika Kudermetova (No. 77) faces Elise Mertens (No. 34) at the Hobart International. Mertens, a seasoned campaigner, is favored with odds of -160, while Kudermetova, known for her aggressive play, is the underdog at +125. Both players are looking to build momentum ahead of the Australian Open.

Meanwhile, at the Great Ocean Road Open, Thanasi Kokkinakis (No. 77) takes on Sebastian Korda (No. 22). Korda, the favorite at -160, has been in solid form, while Kokkinakis, a crowd favorite in Australia, will rely on his powerful serve and home-court advantage.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how these players perform under pressure, with the Australian Open just around the corner. The Adelaide International has already delivered thrilling matches, and the quarterfinals promise to be no different.