Day 6 action at the Australian Open continues on the women’s side with several blockbuster third-round encounters. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka looks to impose her authority against Anastasia Potapova, while rising teenager Iva Jovic aims for a statement upset against top-10 stalwart Jasmine Paolini. Elsewhere, Karolina Muchova faces the grit of Magda Linette, and teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva meets Elena-Gabriela Ruse. Offering their insights and predictions are Jordan Reynolds, Steen Kirby, and Zain Mustafa. Who will advance in Melbourne?
Australian Open Day 6 Women’s Predictions
Aryna Sabalenka vs Anastasia Potapova
Jordan: I doubt the world No. 1 will have any issues here. Potapova bases her game on strong defense, but she is not fast enough to consistently live with Sabalenka’s hitting. It would be surprising if this match extended to a deciding set.
Prediction: Sabalenka in 2
Steen: Potapova has done well here to have a shot at week 2 but Sabalenka is a difficult opponent. The world #1 is 70-12 in her Tour level matches and 29-7 in her career at the AO. Potapova doesn’t have the level to pull this off unless Sabalenka has an off day.
Prediction: Sabalenka in 2
Zain: Both players are ball bashers at heart, but Aryna Sabalenka has shown over multiple seasons that she can adapt her game and win in different ways. In this matchup, though, her plan A of relentless baseline power should be more than enough.
Prediction: Sabalenka in 2
Iva Jovic vs Jasmine Paolini
Jordan: I am backing Jovic to cause a significant upset. The recent Adelaide International finalist has been growing in confidence, and Paolini can struggle against patient opponents who force her to be the aggressor. The Italian has also been prone to early Grand Slam exits since the start of 2025.
Prediction: Jovic in 3
Steen: Paolini has 40+ WTA wins the last two seasons but is just 5-9 in her career at the AO, Jovic at 18 is a genuine developing superstar. Paolini’s h2h record gives her an edge but I don’t think it will be easy. This match is a coin flip, Paolini is at risk of an early exit based on ranking, Jovic’s form is fantastic.
Prediction: Jovic in 3
Zain: Iva Jovic is one of the most exciting prospects on the WTA Tour, while Jasmine Paolini is now an established top-10 player. They met at the US Open last year, where Paolini won comfortably. Jovic’s growth should make this closer, but not enough to fully flip the outcome.
Prediction: Paolini in 3
Karolina Muchova vs Magda Linette
Jordan: Muchova will need to dig in during extended rallies against the gritty Linette. The Pole could have success by using her backhand effectively, but Muchova’s all-court skill set gives her a narrow edge.
Prediction: Muchova in 3
Steen: Linette upset Emma Navarro and at 6-2 on the year is in excellent form. Muchova at 5-1, is eying a return to the WTA top 10 and is 11-5 at the AO historically. Muchova should advance and be a player to watch in the second week.
Prediction: Muchova in 2
Zain: Muchova’s court craft and versatility have historically worked well against Linette. While the Pole has become more aggressive in recent seasons, this remains a stylistic matchup that favors the Czech, who has too many tools to expose Linette’s weaknesses.
Prediction: Muchova in 2
Mirra Andreeva vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse
Jordan: Andreeva was extremely impressive in her previous win over Maria Sakkari. Ruse can play freely with little pressure, but that freedom is unlikely to be enough to overcome Andreeva’s consistency and defensive quality.
Prediction: Andreeva in 2
Steen: Ruse is a pedestrian player that has never made the top 50, Andreeva is 10 years younger and currently in the top 10 with an 8-1 record to start the season. Andreeva’s best AO result is the round of 16 and she’s set to match it, being heavily favored in this third round match.
Prediction: Andreeva in 2
Zain: Ruse has enjoyed a strong run to reach her deepest Australian Open showing, but her journey likely ends here. Against an elite defender like Andreeva, she may struggle to find enough opportunities to dictate points.
Prediction: Andreeva in 2
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
