Defending champion Jelena Ostapenko is set to kick off her title defense at the 2025 Adelaide International against Poland's Magdalena Frech on Tuesday at 2:30 pm on Centre Court. This highly anticipated first-round clash marks the second encounter between the two players, with Ostapenko leading their head-to-head series 1-0.
Ostapenko, currently ranked no. 17, enters the tournament following her last match on December 31, 2024, where she was defeated by Marie Bouzkova. The Latvian superstar boasts an overall career record of 391-240, including 137 wins against 112 losses on hard courts. After clinching the Adelaide Tournament title the previous year with a convincing 6-3, 6-2 victory over Daria Kasatkina, Ostapenko is eager to replicate her success.
On the other hand, Magdalena Frech, ranked no. 24, is also seeking redemption after falling to Suzan Lamens in her last outing at the Brisbane International. The Polish player holds a career record of 374 wins against 258 losses. This marks Frech's debut at the Adelaide International, making her determination to leave a mark even more significant.
Analyzing their styles of play reveals differing strengths. Ostapenko is known for her aggressive baseline game, characterized by powerful groundstrokes and sharp volleys. While her forehand and backhand deliver depth and pace, her serve has been problematic, as evidenced by her recent performance where she tallied 12 double faults. Frech, conversely, maintains her own aggressive style with solid groundstrokes and effective serves, making this match highly competitive.
The match is poised to be broadcasted across various platforms, including wtatv.com and bet365, the latter offering free access for users with funded accounts. Fans across Poland, Latvia, and Australia can catch the action on respective networks like Canal +, Setanta Sports, and beIN Sports.
Ostapenko's recent form, head-to-head history, and experience at this tournament position her as the favorite, yet predictions suggest Frech could pose an unexpected challenge. Tennis Tonic experts predict Frech will triumph in three sets, reflecting the close nature of their previous encounters. After their last meeting at the Birmingham Classic, which Ostapenko won 4-6, 7-5, 6-2, both players have made strides since then.
Ostapenko's mindset entering the match emphasizes the importance of gaining momentum as she prepares for the Australian Open; her efforts to secure as many matches as possible this season are evident. “She’s (Frech) a good player. It’s never easy at the beginning of the season but I’ve been working hard so I’ll just try to get as many matches as possible before the AO,” Ostapenko noted during recent interviews, highlighting her respect for her opponent.
It's this blend of current rankings, previous experiences, and contrasting game styles, all coming down to one match, adds intrigue as the two players prepare to battle on the hard courts of Adelaide. Will Ostapenko's experience shine through, or can Frech craft the upset?