The 2025 Austria Open Linz, now a WTA 500 event, kicks off the post-Australian Open action with a strong field vying for the title. Running from January 27th to February 2nd, the tournament will feature several high-profile players and dark horses eager to make their mark.
A star-studded field without a defending champion
With 2024 champion Jelena Ostapenko absent, the Linz draw is wide open, presenting a golden opportunity for other players. Karolina Muchova, the top seed and 2023 French Open finalist, headlines the tournament. She’s joined by Elina Svitolina, fresh off a quarterfinal run at the Australian Open, and Maria Sakkari, the third seed looking to regain form.
The 2025 edition marks the second year Linz has held WTA 500 status, elevating its significance on the tennis calendar. Notable players like Dayana Yastremska and Elina Avanesyan are also set to compete, each bringing their own narrative to the court.
Key players to watch
- Karolina Muchova [1 WC]
The top seed enters Linz after an early exit at the Australian Open, where she lost to Naomi Osaka. With a first-round bye, Muchova faces either Lulu Sun or a qualifier in the second round. The Czech player will look to rebound in Austria and reclaim her top form. - Elina Svitolina [2]
Svitolina, riding high after a strong performance in Melbourne, will aim to carry her momentum into Linz. As the second seed, she benefits from a first-round bye and will likely face a qualifier in her opening match. Her consistency makes her a favorite for the title. - Maria Sakkari [3]
The Greek third seed has struggled recently but hopes Linz will spark a resurgence. Sakkari faces either Viktoriya Tomova or Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the second round, offering a chance to build confidence in the early rounds. - Dayana Yastremska [5]
The Ukrainian player faces Lucia Bronzetti in her opening match. With a significant drop in rankings looming after failing to replicate her 2024 Australian Open semifinal run, Yastremska has extra motivation to go deep in Linz. - Elina Avanesyan [7]
Avanesyan is slated to play doubles world No. 1 Katerina Siniakova in the first round. However, Siniakova’s tight schedule following her Australian Open doubles triumph could lead to a withdrawal, potentially altering Avanesyan’s path.
Potential matchups and storylines
- Clara Tauson [8] vs. Anhelina Kalinina: Tauson, a promising talent, faces a tough opening-round test against Kalinina, which could set the tone for her tournament.
- Eva Lys [WC]: The wildcard will face a qualifier in the first round, offering her a chance to impress on home soil.
- Wildcard and Qualifier Opportunities: Julia Grabher and Eva Lys, both wildcards, will look to capitalize on their entries to make deep runs.
Draw highlights
The tournament’s draw includes a mix of established stars and rising players, ensuring a competitive week of tennis. With matches set to begin today, the 2025 Austria Open Linz promises drama, surprises, and a new champion to add their name to the tournament’s history.