Top seed Aryna Sabalenka continues her quest for a maiden Wimbledon crown Wednesday with a second-round clash against Czech counterpuncher Marie Bouzková on Centre Court.
Sabalenka made a confident start to her 2025 campaign with a 6–1, 7–5 win over Canadian qualifier Carson Branstine, showcasing the power and aggression that have defined her rise to the top of the women’s game.
The Belarusian has already reached the finals at both the Australian Open and French Open this season, falling in both matches. But perhaps her principal obstacle to a Wimbledon title, Coco Gauff, is now out of the way after a surprising first-round loss on Tuesday.
Sabalenka’s opponent today, Bouzková, ranks just outside the top 30 and arrives with far less momentum but a game well-suited to grass.
She reached the quarterfinals at Wimbledon in 2022 and has the kind of steady, low-error baseline play that can trouble power players — especially if Sabalenka struggles with timing or nerves. As we saw in the French Open final, Sabalenka’s emotions can be a big factor in a match outcome.
Head-to-Head
This is the second career meeting between the two women. Sabalenka won their only prior matchup in straight sets on a hard court in 2021.
Sabalenka leads the WTA in aces and second-serve points won this season, and her serve remains her most reliable weapon on fast surfaces. She thrives on dictating from the baseline, pushing opponents back with depth and pace. But her high-risk style can unravel quickly if the unforced errors pile up.
Bouzková, by contrast, absorbs pace well and forces opponents into long rallies. She rarely gives up cheap points and will look to extend rallies and drag Sabalenka into the corners of the court. Grass favors Sabalenka’s flat power, but it also keeps Bouzková’s defense skimming low, making it difficult for the top seed to get into rhythm.
What to Watch
This matchup could hinge on Sabalenka’s ability to stay composed if Bouzková turns this into a grind. The Belarusian has matured mentally over the past two seasons, but when her game wobbles, it’s usually against players who neutralize pace and force her to think.
Look for Sabalenka to target the Bouzková forehand early with heavy returns and deep drives, while Bouzková will aim to redirect down the line and mix up the rhythm with short slices and changes of direction.
Prediction
Sabalenka in two tight sets. While Bouzková has the tools to frustrate, Sabalenka’s power and confidence should carry her through. If the top seed serves well and avoids overpressing, she remains the favorite to advance without major trouble.
How to Watch Sabalenka vs. Bouzková
The Aryna Sabalenka-Marie Bouzková second-round match is scheduled for an 8:30 AM Eastern start on Centre Court. The game will air on ESPN, which will offer whip-around coverage. Dedicated match feeds are available for ESPN+ subscribers.
Time: 8:30 AM Eastern
Court: Centre Court
TV: ESPN (whiparound coverage)
Streaming: ESPN app and websites, along with multi-court access on ESPN+
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