French Open Fortunes: WTA Ranking Risers and Fallers

The first week of the French Open 2025 has concluded, setting the stage for thrilling second-week matchups and significant shifts in the WTA rankings. Several top players have solidified their positions, while others have faced unexpected setbacks, leading to notable changes in the rankings. Let’s delve into the winners and losers among Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, and Aryna Sabalenka, examining their performances and the resulting impact on their WTA rankings.

Iga Swiatek: Striving to Retain the Throne

Iga Swiatek, the defending champion and a dominant force on clay, entered the French Open with her No. 1 ranking on the line. The scenarios were clear: to maintain her top spot, Swiatek needed to reach at least the quarterfinals. Anything less would open the door for Aryna Sabalenka to seize the coveted No. 1 ranking.

So far, Swiatek has lived up to expectations, reaching the fourth round without dropping a set. She defeated Jaqueline Cristian 6-2, 7-5, extending her French Open winning streak to 23 matches. However, Swiatek acknowledged the challenge posed by Cristian, particularly in the second set, where she had 20 winners but also 21 unforced errors.

Ranking Impact: Swiatek’s performance has kept her in contention for the No. 1 ranking, but the pressure remains. To retain her top spot, Swiatek’s results depend on Sabalenka’s progress.

• If Sabalenka reaches the Round of 16 or quarterfinals, Swiatek must reach the semifinals.
• If Sabalenka reaches the semifinals, Swiatek must reach the final.
• If Sabalenka reaches the final, Swiatek must win the title.

A loss before the quarterfinals would guarantee Sabalenka taking over as World No. 1 on Monday, June 12, after Roland Garros.

Coco Gauff: Aiming for a Career-High

Coco Gauff, the young American sensation, has continued her impressive form, securing her spot in the fourth round for the fifth consecutive year. Gauff defeated Marie Bouzkova 6-1, 7-6 (3), demonstrating resilience after a tough second set. Gauff is one of five American women to reach the fourth round.

Ranking Impact: Gauff is currently ranked No. 2, and her performance at the French Open has the potential to solidify or even improve her ranking.

Jessica Pegula: Battling Through

Jessica Pegula, the American No. 3 seed, faced a tough challenge in her third-round match against Marketa Vondrousova, the 2023 Wimbledon champion. After losing the first set 3-6, Pegula rallied to win the next two sets 6-4, 6-2. Pegula will next meet French wild-card entry Lois Boisson.

Ranking Impact: Pegula’s progress to the fourth round has helped maintain her position.

Aryna Sabalenka: Dominating Display

Aryna Sabalenka, the current World No. 1, has been in scintillating form at the French Open 2025. She has reached the fourth round without dropping a set, showcasing her dominance on the court. Sabalenka defeated Olga Danilovic 6-2, 6-3, continuing her impressive run.

Ranking Impact: Sabalenka’s strong performance has put her in a prime position to potentially claim the No. 1 ranking. Sabalenka will remain No. 1 for the 33rd consecutive week after the tournament, regardless of the result.

Other Notable Ranking Movements

Besides the top contenders, several other players have experienced significant ranking changes during the first week of the French Open:

• Mirra Andreeva: The young Russian teenager has continued her impressive run, reaching the fourth round.
• Jasmine Paolini: The Italian player has been in excellent form, reaching the fourth round and extending her winning streak to nine matches.

Losers

While some players have seen their rankings rise, others have faced setbacks. Some of the anticipated players had early exits, impacting their rankings.

Key Takeaways

The first week of the French Open 2025 has provided exciting tennis and significant shifts in the WTA rankings. Iga Swiatek faces immense pressure to defend her No. 1 ranking, while Aryna Sabalenka is in a strong position to potentially take over the top spot. Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula have also performed well. As the tournament progresses, the WTA rankings will continue to evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of women’s tennis.