Aryna Sabalenka and the historical implications of her number 1 ranking at the end of the season

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Becoming the world number 1 is one of the major goals that every top tennis player sets in their career, but finishing in that position in the WTA ranking at the end of a season elevates their status to a higher level. Aryna Sabalenka joins a select list of names, having interrupted what seemed like a long-standing empire by Iga Swiatek.

An impressive journey. That's the only way to define what Aryna Sabalenka has achieved to become WTA number 1 at the end of a season. The Belarusian had previously tasted being the best in the world for several weeks in 2023 but saw a wild reaction from Iga Swiatek. The Polish player ended two years in that position, accumulating a whopping 125 weeks at the top of the rankings, 75 of them consecutively, making her the seventh in history with the most time at the top of the list. That's why Sabalenka cutting that streak is particularly noteworthy.

Sabalenka's tennis evolution has been characterized by hard and constant work, not only to reduce her flaws and enhance her strengths but also to become a player with increasing technical and tactical skills. The privileged physique and innate power of strokes with which she entered the elite have been complemented by a more intelligent reading of the game, incorporating elements like drop shots and net approaches.

- Sabalenka joins Kerber, Azarenka, and Jankovic as players who have finished a year as number 1

Additionally, Aryna faced challenges with her second service, committing numerous double faults, but managed to overcome that obstacle. She also dealt with personal issues that impacted her career, such as the early death of her father or the suicide of her ex-partner just a few months ago. Overall, the Belarusian is an example of resilience and tenacity, persisting greatly in her endeavors to become a Grand Slam champion, just as she did to finish a year as number 1.

The reward is significant, and her name will be engraved in the annals of history. She becomes the 16th woman to end a year at the top of the WTA ranking, equaling Kerber (2016), Azarenka (2012), and Jankovic (2008). Wozniacki, Halep, and Swiatek have achieved this feat twice, a mark she will aim to match in an exciting 2025. At only 26 years old, Aryna Sabalenka aims to maximize her spectacular form and solidify her position at the peak of the global women's tennis.

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