Fri Sep 26 05:30:00 UTC 2025: ## China Open Seeds in Action: Badosa Returns, Muchova Faces Cirstea Rematch

**Beijing, China** – The third day of the China Open promises exciting matchups as seeded players enter the fray in the bottom half of the second round. Fresh off the Billie Jean King Cup Finals, where they showcased strong performances, Paula Badosa and Elena Rybakina will look to carry that momentum into their opening matches.

Badosa, returning to Beijing after a semifinal run last year, faces Antonia Ruzic. Despite chronic health issues limiting her play, Badosa demonstrated her resilience with a thrilling performance against Elina Svitolina at the Billie Jean King Cup, suggesting she’s ready to compete. Experts predict a straightforward victory for Badosa in two sets.

Meanwhile, Rybakina, the No. 8 seed, will take on Caty McNally. While McNally possesses a varied game, Rybakina’s rising form, highlighted by a dominant showing against Jessica Pegula at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals, makes her a heavy favorite. The prediction: Rybakina in two sets.

The day also features a highly anticipated rematch between Karolina Muchova and Sorana Cirstea, a repeat of their captivating US Open encounter. Muchova, a finalist in Beijing last year, has historically held the upper hand against Cirstea, despite their matches rarely being easy. Experts are forecasting a tight three-set battle, with Muchova ultimately prevailing.

Adding to the intrigue, 17-year-old Iva Jovic, fresh off a surprising victory at the WTA 500 Guadalajara, will face Eva Lys. Despite the Guadalajara event being considered one of the weaker tournaments in its category, Jovic’s rapid rise suggests she’s ready to compete on the main tour. The match is predicted to be a three-set affair, with Jovic’s potential giving her the edge.

Stay tuned for more updates from the China Open as the tournament progresses.

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