Ukraine’s top-ranked player bows out of Australian Open in three-set battle

In the third round, the Ukrainian faced Paula Badosa (Spain, WTA 12).

Kostyuk had a strong start, breaking her opponent’s serve early in the first set. However, the momentum shifted after a few games, and Badosa took the first set 4-6.

The second set was dominated by Kostyuk, who raced to a 5-0 lead. Badosa fought back, but at the crucial moment, Kostyuk managed to close the set 6-4.

The final set began with the Ukrainian losing her serve, and she was unable to recover from this setback, ultimately losing 3-6.

Australian Open 2025 — Round of 32
Marta Kostyuk (Ukraine) vs. Paula Badosa (Spain) — 4-6, 6-4, 3-6

The match lasted 2 hours and 34 minutes. Kostyuk hit six aces but also committed 16 double faults.

Last season, she reached the quarterfinals of the tournament.

Ukraine is still represented by two players in the singles run: Dayana Yastremska and Elina Svitolina, who will play their third-round matches on Jan. 18.

Earlier, Svitolina set a historic record for Ukraine at Grand Slam tournaments - she became the first Ukrainian athlete to secure 100th win at the Grand Slam tournaments.