Nikola Bartunkova vs Aryna Sabalenka Preview & Prediction | 2026 China Open | Third Round

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Aryna Sabalenka takes on Nikola Bartunkova at the China Open. 

Ranking points: WTA 1000

Start date/time: 4 October 2026 at 3:00 am

Venue: National Tennis Center, Beijing, China

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – Tennis Channel

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Tennis Channel

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Nikola Bartunkova vs Aryna Sabalenka ticket information

Nikola Bartunkova vs Aryna Sabalenka prediction

Nikola Bartunkova advanced to the next round of the China Open after an easy victory over Magdalena Frech. The 20-year-old, who is up to a high of 34 in the world rankings, did not concede a break point on her way to winning 6-2 6-2. 

She will now face world number two Aryna Sabalenka, as the 28-year-old returned to the tour with a win over Renata Zarazua. Sabalenka, who had not competed since her US Open final defeat to Elena Rybakina, was always in control as she wrapped up a 6-1 6-3 win after 62 minutes. She now has a 34-4 win-loss record on outdoor hard courts in 2026.

These two met for the first time in Berlin earlier this year, with Sabalenka recovering from a set and 4-0 down to win in three sets. Bartunkova is emerging as a dangerous player on tour, but Sabalenka remains a formidable opponent on this surface.

Nikola Bartunkova vs Aryna Sabalenka tip: Aryna Sabalenka to win 2-0