The Madrid Open 2025 roars into its Round of 16 with a dazzling lineup of clashes, where young prodigies, seasoned champions, and fearless outsiders are set to battle for a place in the quarterfinals. In a tournament that has already served up drama and upsets, the stakes rise even higher as the title contenders begin to reveal themselves. Here’s a detailed look at each matchup — and what to expect.
Mirra Andreeva (WRL) vs. Yuliia Starodubtseva (UKR)
Few would have predicted Yuliia Starodubtseva’s run into the last 16, but her aggressive baseline play has found its reward on Madrid’s faster clay. Yet, she now faces one of the game’s brightest young stars: Mirra Andreeva. Already a fan favorite in Spain after last year’s breakthrough, Andreeva’s court sense and defensive resilience should prove too much for the Ukrainian challenger.
Prediction (fail/correct): Andreeva in two sets or Over 19 games
Belinda Bencic (SUI) vs. Coco Gauff (USA)
This match promises fireworks. Bencic, steadily rebuilding her game after giving birth, meets a Gauff who has grown more assured on clay with every passing season. While Bencic’s clean hitting can trouble anyone, Gauff’s athleticism, ability to extend rallies, and now growing comfort on the surface make her a dangerous force. The American looks ready to absorb the Swiss star’s pace and turn defense into attack at the crucial moments.
Prediction (fail): Gauff in three sets
Diana Shnaider (WRL) vs. Iga Swiatek (POL)
An inspired Diana Shnaider has thrilled Madrid crowds with fearless hitting and a fearless attitude. But now she meets the immovable object: Iga Swiatek. The world No. 2’s heavy topspin, unmatched movement, and mental composure have made her the gold standard on clay. Shnaider will fight, but Swiatek might turn her season around in Madrid.
Prediction (correct): Swiatek in straight sets
Madison Keys (USA) vs. Donna Vekic (CRO)
Two veterans collide in a matchup that screams unpredictability. Keys has the firepower to blast anyone off the court, but her inconsistency remains her Achilles’ heel. Vekic, on the other hand, has played composed, efficient tennis all week. In this contest, nerves and shot selection will matter more than brute force — and Vekic’s ability to mix things up could prove decisive.
Prediction (fail): Vekic wins
Marta Kostyuk (UKR) vs. Anastasia Potapova (WRL)
A fascinating clash of styles awaits. Kostyuk, aggressive and relentless, faces the craft and variety of Potapova. Both players have shown flashes of brilliance and moments of fragility this week. Expect swings of momentum, but if Kostyuk keeps her nerves steady, her superior pace and willingness to step inside the court could tilt the balance.
Prediction (correct): Kostyuk wins
Aryna Sabalenka (WRL) vs. Peyton Stearns (USA)
Sabalenka survived an early scare against Elise Mertens in the previous round and now looks poised to flex her muscles. Peyton Stearns has impressed with her grit and fearless shot-making, but the American will need to produce something extraordinary to withstand the Belarusian’s raw power and aggressive mindset. Sabalenka knows how to raise her level in the later stages, and she should have too many weapons.
Prediction (correct): Sabalenka wins
Moyuka Uchijima (JPN) vs. Ekaterina Alexandrova (WRL)
Moyuka Uchijima has already written a fairy-tale story in Madrid, but facing Ekaterina Alexandrova’s flat, relentless ball-striking on a quick clay court is another level of challenge. Alexandrova’s aggressive return game and clean first-strike tennis are perfectly suited to Madrid’s conditions. Expect Uchijima to fight bravely but ultimately be overpowered.
Prediction (fail/fail): Alexandrova wins or Over 20 games
Elina Svitolina (UKR) vs. Maria Sakkari (GRE)
A heavyweight clash closes out the Round of 16. Svitolina, riding a wave of strong form and eliminating Elena Rybakina in 2 straight sets in the previous round, meets Sakkari, whose physicality and fighting spirit are legendary. Svitolina’s counterpunching and tactical sharpness will be severely tested by Sakkari’s heavy topspin forehand and aggressive court coverage. It will come down to who blinks first in the big moments — and Svitolina’s recent form gives her the slightest edge. Yet, we believe that Sakkari will win this, against all odds.
Prediction (fail): Sakkari wins
In short, buckle up for a dramatic day at the Caja Mágica.