Post-2024 US Open WTA: Sabalenka’s Dominance, Swiatek’s Fall, and Gauff’s Crisis – What’s Next?

The Grand Slam season has come to a close, but several WTA storylines remain compelling. Here are five worth following.

**The Rise of Aryna Sabalenka**
Though the official rankings may not reflect it, Aryna Sabalenka is undoubtedly the top player in the world. Known for her power, Sabalenka has improved significantly in mental toughness and point construction over the past two years. After starting the season with a title at the Australian Open, she capped it off with a win at the US Open. “I’m not focusing on the rankings,” Sabalenka said post-match. “I just want to play my best tennis and keep that fighting spirit every game.”

While Sabalenka and current No. 1 Iga Swiatek didn’t meet at any of the Grand Slams this year, they did clash twice on clay, with Swiatek taking both matches, including a thrilling final in Madrid. Sabalenka turned the tables by defeating Swiatek in Cincinnati. While they might face off again this fall, 2025 could bring the next high-stakes showdown. Regardless of rankings, Sabalenka’s dominance makes her 2024’s top player in the eyes of many.

**Swiatek and Gauff’s Tough Summers**
Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff entered the summer ranked first and second in the world, with high expectations. However, both suffered disappointing exits at the US Open. Swiatek lost to Jessica Pegula in the quarterfinals, while Gauff was ousted in the round of 16 by Emma Navarro for the second straight major. Swiatek struggled with her consistency, while Gauff’s game was plagued by 19 double faults. Both will need to address their respective issues, whether tactical adjustments for Swiatek or technical refinement for Gauff. At just 23 and 21, they still have time to reflect and plan their next moves.

**Pegula and Navarro: Success Through Hard Work**
Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro’s success at the US Open is a testament to perseverance and effort, not just raw talent. Pegula, 30, has steadily climbed the ranks as a late bloomer, finally reaching her first Grand Slam final after six quarterfinal losses. Her victories over Swiatek and Karolina Muchova were marked by improved movement and serving. Navarro, 23, took a quicker path to her first Slam semifinal. With long-term coaching from Peter Ayers, Navarro’s development has been deliberate. Ayers emphasizes that not every mistake is obvious—sometimes playing it safe can be worse than a risky error.

In both Pegula and Navarro, we see that greatness is built, not born, offering hope to anyone striving for excellence.