The rivalry between Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka has been simmering for years, but it has yet to reach its full potential. Despite their dominance on the WTA Tour, they have never met in a Grand Slam final.
In 2024, the Madrid final between Swiatek and Sabalenka was hailed as a potential turning point. However, the summer that was supposed to be the “summer of Swialenka or Sabatek” failed to materialize. They played only twice, with both matches being one-sided affairs.
Swiatek’s dominance on clay continued, but she struggled on other surfaces. Sabalenka, on the other hand, found her form in the second half of the season, winning three consecutive titles.
As the year-end No. 1 ranking hangs in the balance, the two players are separated by a mere 69 points. Swiatek must win the WTA Finals to retain her top spot, while Sabalenka can clinch it by reaching the final.
The lack of a sustained rivalry between Swiatek and Sabalenka can be attributed to several factors. The tennis season is long and demanding, and even the best players experience peaks and valleys. Additionally, their schedules have often clashed, preventing them from meeting in major finals.
However, there are signs of improvement. Sabalenka has realized the benefits of taking breaks, while Swiatek has made a coaching change in an effort to reset her mindset.
The WTA Finals in Riyadh could provide a fitting climax to the 2024 season and give the Swiatek-Sabalenka rivalry the boost it needs. A season-ending showdown would not only determine the year-end No. 1 ranking but also set the stage for a more competitive and compelling rivalry in 2025.
