Cincinnati Open: How Anna Kalinskaya & Others Reached the Quarterfinals

Aryna Sabalenka

Aryna Sabalenka remains a top contender at the Cincinnati Open, despite a grueling three-hour match against Emma Raducanu. Her resilience was evident in her subsequent victory over Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. Sabalenka’s exceptional tiebreak record in 2025, winning 18 out of 19, further solidifies her status as a favorite. Her mental and physical fortitude will be crucial as she progresses through the tournament.

Sabalenka’s path to the quarterfinals included a hard-fought victory against Emma Raducanu, followed by a convincing win over Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. Her aggressive playing style and powerful groundstrokes make her a formidable opponent. To reach the semifinals, Sabalenka will need to maintain her focus and capitalize on her tiebreak优势.

‘I’m feeling confident with my game and tiebreak record,’ Sabalenka stated after her match. ‘But I know I need to stay focused and take each match one step at a time.’

Coco Gauff

Coco Gauff, fresh off a doubles title in Montreal, has benefited from a well-timed breather this week. A walkover and a rain delay allowed her to recuperate before defeating Lucia Bronzetti in straight sets. Gauff’s improved serve, marked by a season-low three double faults, is a promising sign. As a former champion in Cincinnati, Gauff is well-positioned for another strong run.

Gauff’s path to the quarterfinals included a walkover from Dayana Yastremska and a decisive win over Lucia Bronzetti. Her all-around game and improved serve make her a threat to any opponent. To reach the semifinals, Gauff will need to continue minimizing errors and leveraging her experience in Cincinnati.

‘I feel good about my chances,’ Gauff said. ‘I’ve played well here in the past, and I’m confident in my game right now.’

Iga Swiatek

Iga Swiatek has demonstrated consistency and efficiency at the Cincinnati Open, following an early exit in Montreal. She has secured comfortable victories against Anastasia Potapova and Sorana Cirstea, with a walkover against Marta Kostyuk in between. Although she has never reached the final in Cincinnati, Swiatek has consistently made it to the semifinals in the past two years. Her calm demeanor and precise gameplay make her a dangerous contender.

Swiatek’s path to the quarterfinals included wins over Anastasia Potapova and Sorana Cirstea, along with a walkover against Marta Kostyuk. Her strategic gameplay and consistent performance make her a tough opponent. To reach the semifinals, Swiatek will need to maintain her focus and capitalize on her opponents’ weaknesses.

‘I’m taking it one match at a time,’ Swiatek commented. ‘I feel good physically and mentally, and I’m ready for the challenges ahead.’

Jasmine Paolini

Jasmine Paolini has quietly made her mark in Cincinnati, rebounding from a first-round loss in Montreal. After winning three sets in tiebreaks, she dominated Barbora Krejcikova in a rematch of the 2024 Wimbledon final. Paolini’s previous quarterfinal appearance in Cincinnati two years ago, where she lost to eventual champion Gauff, adds intrigue to their upcoming rematch.

Paolini’s path to the quarterfinals included wins over Maria Sakkari, Ashlyn Krueger, and Barbora Krejcikova. Her resilience and ability to perform under pressure make her a formidable opponent. To reach the semifinals, Paolini will need to bring her best game against Gauff and capitalize on opportunities.

‘I’m excited to play Gauff again,’ Paolini said. ‘I know it will be a tough match, but I’m ready for the challenge.’

Elena Rybakina

Elena Rybakina is back in the Cincinnati quarterfinals for the second time, having reached this stage in 2022. Her recent upset victory over sixth-seeded Madison Keys, achieved after three consecutive come-from-behind wins, showcases her resilience and determination. Rybakina’s ability to fight back from difficult situations makes her a contender to watch.

Rybakina’s path to the quarterfinals included wins over Renata Zarazua, Elise Mertens, and Madison Keys. Her powerful serve and aggressive playing style make her a tough opponent. To reach the semifinals, Rybakina will need to maintain her momentum and capitalize on her strengths.

‘I’m happy to be back in the quarterfinals,’ Rybakina stated. ‘I’ve been fighting hard in every match, and I’m ready for the next challenge.’

Anna Kalinskaya

Anna Kalinskaya has already achieved a breakthrough by defeating Ekaterina Alexandrova, ending a six-match losing streak against her. This victory, coupled with an upset win over Wimbledon finalist Amanda Anisimova, highlights Kalinskaya’s strong form this summer. Having reached the final in Washington, D.C., in July, Kalinskaya is poised for a major career moment. Her match against Swiatek could be a defining moment.

Kalinskaya’s path to the quarterfinals included wins over Amanda Anisimova and Ekaterina Alexandrova. Her consistent performance and strategic gameplay make her a formidable opponent. To reach the semifinals, Kalinskaya will need to bring her best game against Swiatek and capitalize on opportunities.

‘I’m feeling confident with my game,’ Kalinskaya said. ‘I’ve been working hard, and I’m ready for the challenges ahead.’

Veronika Kudermetova

For Veronika Kudermetova, reaching the semifinals would be the highlight of her season. After winning four consecutive matches this week, including victories over seeded players Belinda Bencic and Clara Tauson, Kudermetova has a significant opportunity ahead. With Gracheva as her next opponent, a spot in the semifinals is within reach. Her recent form suggests she is capable of seizing this chance.

Kudermetova’s path to the quarterfinals included wins over Belinda Bencic, Clara Tauson, and Magda Linette. Her powerful groundstrokes and aggressive playing style make her a tough opponent. To reach the semifinals, Kudermetova will need to maintain her momentum and capitalize on her strengths.

‘I’m taking it one match at a time,’ Kudermetova commented. ‘I feel good physically and mentally, and I’m ready for the challenges ahead.’

Varvara Gracheva

Varvara Gracheva has had a remarkable week in Cincinnati, winning six consecutive matches after coming through qualifying. Ranked 103rd, Gracheva has upset 24th-seeded Sofia Kenin and 11th-seeded Karolina Muchova. In the fourth round, she overcame Ella Seidel after losing the first set. As she enters her first WTA 1000 quarterfinal, the question is whether the moment will be too big for her, or if she will continue her invincible run.

Gracheva’s path to the quarterfinals included wins over Sofia Kenin, Karolina Muchova, and Ella Seidel. Her resilience and ability to perform under pressure make her a formidable opponent. To reach the semifinals, Gracheva will need to maintain her focus and capitalize on opportunities.

‘I’m excited to be in the quarterfinals,’ Gracheva said. ‘I’ve been working hard, and I’m ready for the next challenge.’

Sabalenka vs. Rybakina

Sabalenka and Rybakina have a rich history, with Sabalenka leading the head-to-head 7-4. Sabalenka won their most recent encounter on grass in Berlin, while Rybakina won their last hard-court match at the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. This quarterfinal promises to be a thrilling contest between two top players.

Swiatek vs. Kalinskaya

Surprisingly, Kalinskaya holds a 1-0 edge in her head-to-head against Swiatek, having won their only match in Dubai in 2024. Kalinskaya’s decisive victory suggests she has the game to challenge Swiatek, making this quarterfinal an intriguing matchup.

Gauff vs. Paolini

This quarterfinal is a rubber match between a two-time Grand Slam champion and a two-time major finalist. Gauff won their first two encounters on hard courts, including a quarterfinal in Cincinnati in 2023, but Swiatek has won their last two matches on clay. Paolini’s ability to perform on hard courts will be tested in this encounter.

Gracheva vs. Kudermetova

Kudermetova has won both of her matches against Gracheva, although they haven’t played in nearly three years. Both victories were on hard courts, suggesting Kudermetova has an advantage in this quarterfinal clash.