Fireworks are expected at the Semi-Final stage of the Australian Open as the world number one, Aryna Sabalenka, takes on the top-ranked Paula Badosa in a highly-anticipated match. Sabalenka has bulldozed her way into this stage, characteristic of her power and aggressive intent, while Badosa has crafted a brilliant run with resilience and tactical brilliance. This encounter has all the makings of a classic, with both players hungry for a spot in the final.
Let's break down the form, strengths, and match dynamics between these two incredible athletes to build a complete betting preview of what should be an electric matchup.
Claim Your Welcome BonusAryna Sabalenka
World number one Aryna Sabalenka at times has looked every bit the part across the fortnight. In the last eight she showed a good head on her shoulders, as well as an all-round game, to despatch Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Behind a set, Sabalenka reset her strategy before powering up with some heavy groundstrokes and a first serve that few could return.
Her statistics showed an inconsistent picture of 71% first-serve success with 3 aces, which meant she was able to dominate play on her serve, while a save rate of 37% on break-point and 3 double faults revealed that she comes into pressure situations not as strong. But armed with a fearsome forehand and aggressive mindset, Sabalenka's ability to boss rallies gives her the significant edge.
Notably, against Badosa, an aggressive return game and experience in high-level matches are a few of her weapons that may help her extend her six-match winning streak against the Spaniard.
Paula Badosa
Paula Badosa has continued her resurgence here at the Australian Open, a dogged refusal to back down and take more seeds down, including Coco Gauff, in straight sets during the Quarter-Final match. Her shot selection was measured; she never gave up being consistent from the baseline and was also clutch on those return games in beating Gauff.
Some question marks may be brought over Badosa's first serve, which has gone in a modest 57%, but she has been incredibly cool under pressure. Saving just 33% of break points may set off some alarm bells against the remorseless returning of Sabalenka, yet the fact that she took four break points against Gauff showed she can pounce when the chances come.
If Badosa is to cause an upset, she will need to defuse Sabalenka's power with deep returns and utilize her superior court coverage to extend the rallies. Patience and a calculated approach may just unseat the world number one.
Expert Betting Tips
Sabalenka to Win 2-0 @ 1.63 odds (Betway):
The aggressive game of Sabalenka has overwhelmed Badosa on multiple occasions in their past meetings. With her present form and six-match winning streak in the head-to-head ledger, a straight-sets victory seems very probable.
Over 19.5 Games @ 1.60 odds (1xbet):
Badosa's fighting spirit and her improved baseline game could push Sabalenka into long rallies leading to close sets or two.
Sabalenka Over 4.5 Aces @ 2.10 (Bet365):
The serve is one of the biggest weapons of Sabalenka. Considering the high stake of a Semi-Final, she is expected to have an ace-heavy perfo
rmance.
Other predictions
