WTA Finals 2024: Swiatek and Gauff Shine in Riyadh as Sabalenka Aims for Year-End No.1

The 2024 WTA Finals, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, have kicked off with thrilling matches and significant performances from top players. Iga Swiatek, the No.2 seed, made a remarkable comeback in her opening match against Barbora Krejcikova. Despite losing the first set and facing a double break in the second, Swiatek rallied to win 4-6, 7-5, 6-2. This victory marked her first match in two months and her debut under new coach Wim Fissette.

Coco Gauff also had a strong start, defeating her compatriot Jessica Pegula 6-3, 6-2. This win was Gauff’s 20th career Top 10 victory and her first on hard court since last year’s WTA Finals. Gauff will next face Swiatek, with the winner taking control of the Orange Group.

Aryna Sabalenka, the current world No.1, is on a mission to secure her first year-end No.1 ranking. She began her campaign with a straight-sets win over Zheng Qinwen, 6-3, 6-4. Sabalenka has won 21 of her last 22 matches and needs to win her two remaining group matches to guarantee the top spot. Her next challenge is against Jasmine Paolini, who has significantly improved and recently defeated Elena Rybakina 7-6(5), 6-4.

The tournament has also seen notable appearances, including a surprise visit from Brazilian soccer star Neymar, who handled the coin toss and met with players like Sabalenka and Paolini. The event continues to attract high-level competition and interest, despite some criticism regarding the venue choice due to Saudi Arabia’s human rights practices.