Katie Volynets Gears Up for Major Test Against Petra Kvitová at Madrid Open

April 23, 2025 – Madrid, Spain —
American rising star Katie Volynets is preparing for one of the biggest matches of her career as she faces two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitová in the first round of the 2025 Mutua Madrid Open.

Volynets, currently ranked World No. 70, has been steadily climbing the WTA rankings over the past year. Known for her gritty baseline play and tactical intelligence, the 23-year-old from Walnut Creek, California, has become one of the young Americans to watch on tour.

This matchup marks a significant opportunity for Volynets, especially as Kvitová, a seasoned veteran and former World No. 2, is returning to clay courts for the first time in two years following an extended injury break.

"It's exciting to compete against someone I've admired for so long," Volynets said during a press conference Tuesday.
"Petra’s a legend, and stepping onto the court with her will be a huge challenge — but it’s the kind of challenge that makes you better."

Recent Form and Background

Volynets recently partnered with Filipina sensation Alex Eala in the doubles draw at the WTA 125 Oeiras Ladies Open in Portugal. Although they exited early, Volynets looked sharp in singles practices and remains focused on her clay-court preparations.

Since her stunning upset over World No. 9 Veronika Kudermetova at the 2023 Australian Open, where she reached the third round, Volynets has built a reputation for upsetting higher-ranked opponents — especially when considered the underdog.

"She has the game to trouble top players," said ESPN analyst Mary Joe Fernández.
"Her backhand down the line is world-class, and her composure under pressure is something you can't teach."

A Clash of Styles

The matchup against Kvitová is intriguing not only because of the experience gap but also because of their contrasting styles.
While Kvitová is known for her powerful left-handed groundstrokes and aggressive court positioning, Volynets favors a more patient, defensive approach, wearing down opponents over long rallies.

On clay — a surface that rewards patience and consistency — Volynets may find conditions that neutralize some of Kvitová’s raw power.

However, experience matters, and Kvitová has 31 WTA titles to her name, including two Grand Slam crowns. She also won the Madrid Open in 2011 and 2015, proving she can dominate on clay when at her best.

The Bigger Picture

For Volynets, this match represents more than just a shot at a marquee upset. A strong showing in Madrid could significantly boost her ranking, improving her seeding opportunities for the upcoming French Open in May.

"Every match at this level is about building belief," Volynets told reporters.
"I’m proud of the work we’ve put in. Win or lose, I know this is part of the journey."

The Volynets-Kvitová showdown is set for Wednesday, April 23rd, on the Manolo Santana Stadium court, with coverage available on Tennis Channel and WTA TV.

Tennis fans around the world will be watching closely — as a new generation, led by players like Katie Volynets, continues to push for their place among the sport’s elite.