As the grass heats up in Berlin, the quarterfinal lineup promises a compelling blend of comeback stories, power clashes, and surface specialists finding their footing. Here’s what to expect from Friday’s four marquee matchups.
Ons Jabeur vs. Marketa Vondrousova
Jabeur has looked more assertive with each round, comfortably dispatching Jasmine Paolini and Caroline Dolehide after a mixed clay season. The Tunisian’s natural flair and slice-heavy game translate well to grass, but Vondrousova is yet to drop a set this week, ousting Madison Keys and Mirra Shnaider with quiet efficiency. Their styles contrast beautifully — this one could hinge on who controls the tempo early.
Prediction: Vondrousova to win (correct)
Paula Badosa vs. Wang Xinyu
Wang has already stunned the field by eliminating both Daria Kasatkina and Coco Gauff in straight sets — the latter in what was arguably the upset of the tournament so far. Badosa, meanwhile, has looked composed and clinical, taking down Navarro and Lys with confident shot selection. If Wang maintains her fearless rhythm, Badosa’s experience on grass will be put to the test.
Prediction: Paula Badosa to win (wrong, Badosa retired)
Aryna Sabalenka vs. Elena Rybakina
A heavyweight clash between two former Slam champions who have largely handled their business in Berlin. Sabalenka’s second-round match against Masarova was interrupted (slippery surface) but she came through unscathed, while Rybakina recovered from a match cancellation to defeat Ashlyn Krueger with strong serving, then beat Siniakova in straight sets. This matchup could define the tournament — both are peaking, and both know what it takes to win big.
Prediction: Rybakina to win (wrong, Rybakina couldn’t convert 4 match points)
Amanda Anisimova vs. Liudmila Samsonova
Anisimova has rediscovered her aggressive baseline rhythm, dispatching Andreescu and Frech in convincing fashion. Samsonova, on the other hand, emerged from a brutal three-setter against Pegula, which may leave some physical questions entering the quarters. If Anisimova serves well, she could push the 2022 Berlin champion to the brink.
Prediction: Samsonova to win (correct)