In 2024, Aryna Sabalenka dominated the WTA season, securing the Player of the Year award for the first time in her career. She was voted for this prestigious title by international tennis media.
Aryna Sabalenka: Player of the Year 2024
Aged 26, the Belarusian displayed her skill and determination throughout the year by reaching seven finals and winning four titles. Notable achievements include defending her Australian Open title and securing her first victory at the US Open. Additionally, she claimed two WTA 1000 titles at the Cincinnati Open and the Wuhan Open.
In October, Sabalenka regained the world No.1 ranking, holding onto it until the end of the year. With her fourth consecutive qualification for the WTA Finals, Sabalenka proved her consistency, resilience, and championship mentality.
Other WTA Award Winners: Celebrating Excellence
Doubles Team of the Year 2024: Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini
The Italian duo, Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini, dominated in doubles, winning titles in Rome, Beijing, and Linz, with their season culminating in Olympic gold in Paris.
Most Improved Player of the Year 2024: Emma Navarro
In 2024, Emma Navarro’s successful season solidified her elite status among the WTA Tour players. She clinched her first WTA title at the Hobart International and reached six semifinals, including at Grand Slam events.
Navarro’s breakthrough included defeating three Top 5 players, including Aryna Sabalenka at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. Her consistent performances earned her a spot in the Top 10 rankings in September, making her a player to watch.
Newcomer of the Year 2024: Lulu Sun
Lulu Sun made an impressive leap from outside the Top 200 to the Top 40, becoming the first New Zealand woman to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal at Wimbledon.
Comeback Player of the Year 2024: Paula Badosa
Paula Badosa made a remarkable comeback in 2024 after ending her 2023 season prematurely due to a back injury. She won the Mubadala DC Open in Washington, reached multiple semifinals, and equaled her best Grand Slam result by reaching the quarterfinals of the US Open.
