While Coco Gauff is often considered a potential challenger to Aryna Sabalenka’s dominance at the Australian Open, the biggest threat to Sabalenka’s title defense may not come from Gauff, but rather from other players who possess unique skills and matchups that could exploit Sabalenka’s game.
Sabalenka, known for her aggressive style, powerful groundstrokes, and strong serve, has established herself as a formidable force on the WTA Tour, winning her first Grand Slam title at the 2023 Australian Open. However, she has encountered difficulties when facing players who can disrupt her rhythm, force her into long rallies, or apply pressure on her serve. Here are a few players who might present a bigger threat than Gauff at the 2025 Australian Open:
- Iga Świątek
Iga Świątek, the former world No. 1, has proven to be one of Sabalenka’s toughest competitors. Świątek’s ability to move quickly around the court, her exceptional footwork, and her heavy topspin shots can neutralize Sabalenka’s power. Świątek’s consistent deep runs in Grand Slams and her tactical ability to grind out long points make her a dangerous opponent. Sabalenka has struggled against Świątek’s versatility and mental fortitude in past meetings, and Świątek will be eager to regain her dominance after falling short in Melbourne in previous years. - Elena Rybakina
Elena Rybakina has a game that can go toe-to-toe with Sabalenka’s power. The 2022 Wimbledon champion has a massive serve and an aggressive baseline game, similar to Sabalenka’s. Rybakina’s ability to dictate points and stay composed in high-pressure situations has helped her defeat top players, including Sabalenka in past encounters. Rybakina’s calm under pressure and ability to match Sabalenka’s intensity could make her one of the biggest threats in Melbourne. - Ons Jabeur
Ons Jabeur’s crafty game style has the potential to frustrate Sabalenka. Jabeur is known for her creativity, using a mix of drop shots, slices, and changes of pace that can throw Sabalenka off her rhythm. Jabeur’s court awareness and ability to adapt her strategy mid-match could make her a challenging opponent for the more straightforward, power-oriented Sabalenka. If Jabeur plays at her best, her unpredictability could be a decisive factor. - Jessica Pegula
Pegula’s consistency and defensive skills could pose a serious challenge to Sabalenka. Pegula is a baseline grinder who excels at retrieving balls and making her opponents work for every point. With her ability to handle long rallies and remain mentally focused, Pegula could wear Sabalenka down in a battle of endurance. Pegula’s performances in big matches have steadily improved, making her a potential threat in the later stages of the tournament. - Markéta Vondroušová
The 2023 Wimbledon champion, Markéta Vondroušová, is another player who could derail Sabalenka’s Australian Open campaign. Her left-handed game, full of variety and finesse, could disrupt Sabalenka’s power play. Vondroušová’s skill at using angles, spins, and her ability to absorb pace will test Sabalenka’s patience and force her to adjust her game in uncomfortable ways.
While Coco Gauff remains a prominent competitor with her athleticism, improved serve, and mental resilience, the combination of tactical prowess, variety, and experience from players like Świątek, Rybakina, Jabeur, and others may prove to be a bigger obstacle for Sabalenka in her quest to defend her Australian Open title. Ultimately, Sabalenka’s ability to handle these diverse challenges will determine if she can maintain her dominance in 2025.
