In a year packed with unforgettable achievements and record-breaking wins, Aryna Sabalenka capped off the 2024 season in spectacular fashion, officially securing her spot as the year-end No. 1 in the WTA Rankings. This accomplishment fulfills a lifelong dream for Sabalenka, who has overtaken tennis icons like Venus Williams in total weeks at the top and now looks ahead with a comfortable points lead that could extend her dominance well into 2025.
Sabalenka reclaimed the No. 1 position on October 21, dethroning Iga Swiatek, and has now held it for 12 weeks, surpassing Venus Williams’ record of 11 weeks at the top. The Belarusian powerhouse is now tied with tennis legends Arantxa Sanchez Vicario and Ana Ivanovic in 23rd place on the all-time weeks-at-No.1 list, with Jennifer Capriati within striking distance at 17 weeks. With her current points buffer, Sabalenka is set to retain her lead through the upcoming Australian Open, ensuring she stays at the summit of women’s tennis for at least another 10 weeks.
Reflecting on her monumental year, which included winning two Grand Slam titles and two WTA 1000 tournaments, the 26-year-old exuded pride: “I think I achieved a lot this season, and there is no room for disappointment. I just have to be proud of myself. I won two majors, became world No. 1, and finished the year as world No. 1, which was my goal last year.”
Coco Gauff’s Big Payday and Record-Breaking Performance
Meanwhile, Coco Gauff solidified her place among the WTA’s top competitors with a breathtaking run at the WTA Finals in Riyadh. The 20-year-old American showcased her grit and skill, defeating formidable players like Swiatek, Sabalenka, and Zheng Qinwen to claim the prestigious year-end trophy. Gauff’s efforts were richly rewarded, as she took home the biggest prize check in WTA Finals history, an astounding $4.8 million. The win also netted her 1,300 points, further securing her position at No. 3 in the WTA rankings and placing her over 1,100 points ahead of Jasmine Paolini.
With her prize earnings this season alone surpassing $9 million, Gauff has now moved up to 23rd on the all-time WTA Tour career prize-money list—a remarkable achievement for a player still in her early 20s.
Rising Star Zheng Qinwen Shakes Up the Rankings
Chinese sensation Zheng Qinwen also saw a significant boost after her WTA Finals run, which landed her a career-high No. 5 ranking. After battling through a challenging season, Zheng’s performance in the Finals has set her up as one of the top emerging threats in women’s tennis, overtaking big names like Elena Rybakina and Jessica Pegula.
WTA Year-End Rankings: Top 20 Players
The WTA Rankings going into the offseason highlight a changing landscape in women’s tennis, with young talents rising to the forefront. Here’s a snapshot of the top players:
- Aryna Sabalenka – 9,416 points
- Iga Swiatek – 8,370
- Coco Gauff – 6,530
- Jasmine Paolini – 5,344
- Zheng Qinwen – 5,340
- Elena Rybakina – 5,171
- Jessica Pegula – 4,705
- Emma Navarro – 3,589
- Daria Kasatkina – 3,368
- Barbora Krejcikova – 3,214
The top 20 also includes rising stars like Emma Navarro and Mirra Andreeva, both closing in on higher rankings. This emerging talent pool signals a competitive season ahead in 2025.
Looking Forward: The WTA’s Future Stars
With Sabalenka at the top, Gauff breaking records, and Zheng climbing fast, the 2024 season has paved the way for an explosive 2025. From Sabalenka’s quest to hold onto the No. 1 spot to Gauff and Zheng’s continued ascent, women’s tennis is set for more thrilling moments as these young champions push the boundaries of the sport.
