The business end draws near at the WTA 250 in Linz as the women left in the draw gear up for the remaininig Round 16 matches and the start of the quarterfinals. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the slate in Austria. But who will book their spot in the next round?
WTA Linz Predictions
Karolina Muchova vs Sara Sorribes Tormo
Head-to-Head: Sorribes Tormo 1:0 Muchova
Karolina Muchova has only lost to elite opposition since her comeback and should be favored against Sara Sorribes Tormo, despite their head-to-head record. The Spaniard has momentum from qualifying but has historically struggled against top-20 players, making an upset unlikely.
Prediction: Muchova in 2
Elina Avanesyan vs Petra Martic
Head-to-Head: First Meeting
Petra Martic’s experience and renewed confidence after back-to-back Top 100 wins could make her a tough opponent, but Elina Avanesyan’s form and 2-0 head-to-head lead suggest she has the edge. The 22-year-old has been more consistent in recent months and will likely capitalize on her movement and defensive skills to frustrate the veteran. If Martic can impose her variety and maintain her level over three sets, she has a chance, but Avanesyan remains the favorite to reach the Linz quarterfinals.
Prediction: Avanesyan in 3
Dayana Yastremska vs Antonia Ruzic
Head-to-Head: First Meeting
Dayana Yastremska’s resurgence makes her the clear favorite, but Antonia Ruzic’s momentum and confidence could pose a challenge. If Yastremska maintains her aggressive play and avoids lapses, she should secure her first non-Australian WTA quarterfinal since 2022.
Prediction: Yastremska in 2
Ekaterina Alexandrova vs Aliaksandra Sasnovich
Head-to-Head: Alexandrova 4:2 Sasnovich
Ekaterina Alexandrova will be eager to turn her season around in Linz, a tournament where she has historically thrived despite a rocky start to 2025. Her dominant head-to-head record against Aliaksandra Sasnovich, particularly on indoor hard courts, gives her the upper hand, and she should be favored to advance. While Sasnovich has gained some momentum with back-to-back wins, her struggles on hard courts in recent times make an upset unlikely.
Prediction: Alexandrova in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
