Aryna Sabalenka has secured the WTA’s year-end No. 1 ranking for 2024, marking a significant milestone in her career. The Belarusian star’s triumph comes after Iga Swiatek’s defeat to Coco Gauff at the WTA Finals on Tuesday.
Sabalenka’s dominance throughout the season has been evident, with the 24-year-old winning two Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. Her consistent performances have propelled her to the top of the rankings, where she will join an elite group of players who have achieved the year-end No. 1 ranking.
Swiatek, who held the top spot for much of the year, needed to win the WTA Finals undefeated and for Sabalenka to lose all her remaining matches to retain her No. 1 status. However, Swiatek’s loss to Gauff dashed her hopes of finishing the year at the summit.
Sabalenka’s rise to the top has been a testament to her hard work and determination. Known for her powerful serve and aggressive baseline play, she has consistently challenged the best players in the world. Her victory at the WTA Finals is a fitting end to a remarkable season.
The WTA year-end No. 1 ranking has been dominated by a select few players over the years. Steffi Graf holds the record with eight year-end No. 1 finishes, followed by Martina Navratilova with seven. Serena Williams and Ashleigh Barty have each achieved the feat five times.
Sabalenka’s achievement is particularly notable as she is only the second player born in 1998 or later to finish the year at No. 1, after Swiatek. This underscores her exceptional talent and the bright future that lies ahead for her.
