“Sabalenka is a Lot Better than Rybakina”: Alex Corretja and Mats Wilander Disagree Over Australian Open and World No. 1 Predictions for 2025
The 2025 tennis season has kicked off with intense debates about who will dominate the women’s tour this year. Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina, two of the WTA’s top contenders, have emerged as focal points of contention among tennis pundits. Former players and analysts Alex Corretja and Mats Wilander have voiced contrasting opinions regarding their chances at the upcoming Australian Open and the battle for the coveted World No. 1 ranking.
With the season’s first Grand Slam on the horizon, both Sabalenka and Rybakina are poised to make significant statements. However, their contrasting styles, mental approaches, and 2024 campaigns have fueled differing perspectives about who truly holds the edge.
The Case for Aryna Sabalenka: Corretja’s Perspective
Alex Corretja, a two-time French Open finalist and seasoned analyst, is firmly in Aryna Sabalenka’s corner. For him, the Belarusian powerhouse has shown a level of dominance and consistency that sets her apart from her peers. “Sabalenka is a lot better than Rybakina right now,” Corretja asserted during a recent discussion.
Corretja’s argument is rooted in Sabalenka’s extraordinary run in 2024, where she not only clinched the Australian Open but also displayed remarkable improvement in her mental resilience and tactical awareness. Her ability to deliver under pressure, particularly in high-stakes matches, has become a hallmark of her game.
“Her power game has always been her strength, but what makes her stand out now is her ability to control it. She’s no longer just blasting winners recklessly; she’s using her power with precision and purpose,” Corretja explained.
Sabalenka’s serve, once a liability due to frequent double faults, has also become a weapon. She ended 2024 with the highest ace count on the tour, a testament to her hard work and technical adjustments. Moreover, her movement on the court and improved fitness levels have made her a more complete player.
For Corretja, Sabalenka’s mental toughness is what truly separates her. “She’s shown that she can handle the pressure of being at the top. Winning the Australian Open last year was a turning point. She knows what it takes to win at this level, and that experience gives her the edge heading into 2025,” he added.
The Case for Elena Rybakina: Wilander’s View
Mats Wilander, a former World No. 1 and seven-time Grand Slam champion, disagrees with Corretja’s assessment. For Wilander, Elena Rybakina’s game and temperament make her a formidable contender for the Australian Open and the World No. 1 spot in 2025.
“Rybakina may not be as flashy as Sabalenka, but she’s incredibly effective. Her game is built on precision and consistency, which are crucial in the long run. I believe she has what it takes to outlast Sabalenka over the course of a season,” Wilander said.
Rybakina, who finished 2024 as the World No. 2, has often been praised for her calm demeanor and efficient style of play. Her powerful serve and unflappable composure under pressure have earned her the nickname “The Ice Queen” among fans.
“While Sabalenka relies heavily on her raw power, Rybakina’s game is more well-rounded. She doesn’t need to dominate every rally; she can wait for her opportunity and strike with precision,” Wilander explained.
Wilander also highlighted Rybakina’s success in handling big moments, citing her Wimbledon triumph in 2022 and her consistency in reaching the latter stages of tournaments. “She’s been knocking on the door for a while. It’s only a matter of time before she puts it all together and becomes the undisputed No. 1,” he added.
The Battle for No. 1
The debate between Corretja and Wilander reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding the WTA’s top rankings in 2025. Sabalenka, who ended 2024 as World No. 1, is determined to maintain her position. However, Rybakina, along with other rising stars like Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff, is eager to dethrone her.
Sabalenka’s game plan for 2025 revolves around maintaining her aggressive baseline game while continuing to improve her shot selection and net play. Her coach has emphasized the importance of staying mentally focused, especially in crucial moments.
On the other hand, Rybakina’s strategy is more centered on consistency and exploiting her opponents’ weaknesses. Her ability to adapt to different playing styles and surfaces makes her a versatile threat throughout the season.
Both players are entering the Australian Open in top form, setting the stage for a potential showdown. If Sabalenka successfully defends her title, it will cement her status as the player to beat in 2025. However, if Rybakina claims her first Australian Open crown, it could mark the beginning of a shift in the power dynamics of women’s tennis.
What Lies Ahead
The contrasting styles of Sabalenka and Rybakina represent the diverse talent pool in women’s tennis today. While Sabalenka thrives on power and intensity, Rybakina relies on precision and composure. Their rivalry is a testament to the evolving nature of the sport, where different approaches can lead to success.
As the Australian Open approaches, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching both players. The tournament is not only an opportunity to win a Grand Slam title but also a chance to set the tone for the rest of the season.
For now, the debate rages on, with Corretja and Wilander offering compelling arguments for their respective picks. Whether Sabalenka’s raw power or Rybakina’s calculated precision prevails, one thing is certain: the battle for supremacy in 2025 will be a thrilling spectacle for tennis enthusiasts worldwide.
With the WTA Tour as competitive as ever, the question remains: who will seize the spotlight and emerge as the dominant force in women’s tennis? Only time will tell.