The 2024 WTA season belonged to Aryna Sabalenka, whose phenomenal performances earned her the prestigious Player of the Year award for the first time in her career, as voted by international tennis media.
Player of the Year 2024: Aryna Sabalenka
The 26-year-old Belarusian showcased her grit and skill throughout the year, reaching an impressive seven finals and securing four titles. Among her standout achievements were her successful defense of the Australian Open title and her maiden triumph at the US Open. Sabalenka also added two WTA 1000 titles to her collection, claiming victories at the Cincinnati Open and the Wuhan Open.
October marked another milestone as she recaptured the world No.1 ranking, maintaining her position through the year’s end. With her fourth consecutive qualification for the WTA Finals, Sabalenka’s year was a testament to her consistency, resilience, and championship mentality.
Other WTA Award winners: Recognizing excellence
Doubles Team of the Year 2024: Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini
The Italian duo dominated in doubles, winning titles in Rome, Beijing, and Linz, and highlighting their season with Olympic gold in Paris.
Most Improved Player of the Year 2024: Emma Navarro
Emma Navarro’s successful 2024 season cemented her place among the WTA Tour’s elite. The American claimed her first WTA title at the Hobart International and reached six additional semifinals across various tournament levels, including Grand Slams.
Navarro’s rise was marked by notable victories over three Top 5 players, including a stunning upset of Aryna Sabalenka at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. Her consistency paid off with a debut in the Top 10 rankings in September, making her one of the most exciting players to watch.
Newcomer of the Year 2024: Lulu Sun
Lulu Sun soared from outside the Top 200 to the Top 40, making history as the first New Zealand woman to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal at Wimbledon.
Comeback Player of the Year 2024: Paula Badosa
After ending her 2023 season early due to a back injury, Paula Badosa made an inspiring return in 2024. The Spaniard won the Mubadala DC Open in Washintgon, reached multiple semifinals, and matched her career-best Grand Slam showing with the US Open quarterfinals.
