“Sabalenka Sets Sights on Swiatek’s No. 1 Ranking—Coach Reveals 2024 Takeover Plan”

Aryna Sabalenka has downplayed the importance of becoming World No. 1 several times this year, but according to her coach, Anton Dubrov, she will actively chase the top spot in the coming weeks.

Although the current WTA rankings show Iga Swiatek with a comfortable lead over Sabalenka, the gap may narrow soon. Swiatek is set to defend a substantial number of points from her victories at last year’s China Open and the WTA Finals. These points are what separate her from Sabalenka, as the 2024 WTA Race to Riyadh reveals how close they actually are.

Swiatek leads with 8,285 points, only 400 ahead of Sabalenka’s 7,876. That’s not an insurmountable margin for the World No. 2, who has recently outperformed Swiatek. Sabalenka triumphed at both the Cincinnati Open and the US Open, displaying far better form than the Pole in recent weeks. If she can maintain that level of play and finish the season strong, reclaiming the No. 1 ranking and ending the year as the top player is within reach.

Last year, Sabalenka seemed poised to achieve this feat, but Swiatek’s dominant win at the WTA Finals allowed her to reclaim the No. 1 spot by season’s end.

Many expect Sabalenka to come back with renewed determination this year. Although she has downplayed her focus on the top ranking, her coach Dubrov acknowledged that it’s now a clear goal.

“The priority is to stay fit and healthy, as recovery is key,” Dubrov said regarding Sabalenka’s goals for the rest of the season. “Of course, finishing the year as No. 1 would be amazing. But after the emotional and physical toll of the US Open, our immediate focus is on recovery before setting new goals.”

It’s no surprise that Sabalenka wants to reclaim the World No. 1 ranking, as pursuing it simply means playing her best tennis in the remaining tournaments of the year.

“Everyone has goals like winning four Slams and finishing as No. 1,” Dubrov added. “It’s a great goal, but it takes time and management.”

If Sabalenka continues her current form, she is expected to perform strongly for the remainder of 2024, and Swiatek’s hold on the top spot may be at risk.