WTA Ranking Shake-Up: Gauff & Pegula Eye Swiatek’s No. 2 Spot

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings are poised for a potential shake-up, with American stars Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula in contention to dethrone Iga Swiatek from her current world No. 2 position. As the Madrid Open unfolds, the battle for ranking supremacy intensifies, promising thrilling competition and dramatic shifts in the top echelon of women’s tennis.

The Current WTA Landscape

As of April 24, 2025, the top players in the WTA rankings are:

1. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR)
2. Iga Swiatek (POL)
3. Jessica Pegula (USA)
4. Coco Gauff (USA)
5. Jasmine Paolini (ITA)

Swiatek has consistently held a top spot for a prolonged period, showcasing her dominance in the sport. However, the pressure from Gauff and Pegula is mounting, setting the stage for potential changes.

The Scenarios Unfolding in Madrid

The Madrid Open serves as a crucial battleground where Swiatek’s No. 2 ranking faces a formidable challenge from Pegula and Gauff. Several scenarios could play out, impacting the rankings significantly:

• Swiatek’s Performance: As the defending champion, Swiatek has a significant number of points to defend. A strong performance, ideally defending her title, would solidify her hold on the No. 2 ranking. However, failing to reach the final could create an opportunity for her American rivals.
• Pegula’s Ambition: Pegula, currently ranked No. 3, is in a prime position to overtake Swiatek. A strong showing in Madrid, particularly if Swiatek falters, could propel her to the No. 2 spot.
• Gauff’s Challenge: Gauff, the young American sensation, is also a serious contender. A title win or a deep run in the tournament, coupled with unfavorable results for Swiatek, could see her climb to No. 2.

Coco Gauff: A Rising Star

Coco Gauff, born on March 13, 2004, has rapidly ascended the ranks of professional tennis. Her career highlights include:

• Current Ranking: No. 4 in singles
• Grand Slam Titles: 2023 US Open
• WTA Finals Title: 2024
• Doubles Title: 2024 French Open (partnering with Katerina Siniaková)
• Career-High Ranking: No. 2 in singles (achieved on June 10, 2024)

Gauff’s coach, Rick Macci, believes she is on the cusp of reaching the world No. 1 ranking, praising her confidence and exceptional backhand.

Jessica Pegula: A Consistent Performer

Jessica Pegula, born on February 24, 1994, has established herself as a consistent force in women’s tennis. Her achievements include:

• Current Ranking: No. 3 in singles
• Career-High Ranking: No. 3 in singles (achieved on October 24, 2022)
• Doubles Ranking: No. 1 in doubles (achieved on September 11, 2023)
• Grand Slam Finals: 2024 US Open (singles), 2023 WTA Finals (singles), 2022 French Open (doubles, partnering with Coco Gauff)

Pegula’s recent form has been impressive, with a win rate of 78.8% in 2025. Her strong serve and ability to convert break points make her a formidable opponent.

Iga Swiatek: A Dominant Force

Iga Swiatek, born on May 31, 2001, has been a dominant force in women’s tennis, holding the world No. 1 ranking for a significant period. Her accomplishments include:

• Current Ranking: No. 2 in singles
• Grand Slam Titles: Four French Open titles, one US Open title
• WTA Finals Title: 2023
• Weeks at No. 1: 125 weeks (seventh on the all-time list)

Swiatek’s consistent performance and impressive record have solidified her position as one of the top players in the world. However, she faces increasing pressure from Gauff and Pegula, who are eager to challenge her dominance.

The Ranking System: How It Works

The WTA rankings are based on a rolling 52-week, cumulative system. A player’s ranking is determined by her results at a maximum of 18 tournaments (or 19 if she competed in the WTA Finals) for singles and 12 for doubles. Points are awarded based on how far a player advances in a tournament.

For singles, the ranking period must include:

• The four Grand Slams
• Six WTA 1000 Mandatory combined/virtually combined tournaments
• One WTA 1000 Mandatory (WTA-only) tournament
• The best of seven results from all WTA 1000 Mandatory, WTA 500, WTA 250, and WTA 125 Tournaments and ITF W15+ events
• The WTA Finals as a bonus tournament if the player attended

Expert Predictions and Analysis

Tennis experts are closely watching the battle for the No. 2 ranking, with many predicting a fluid season and potential shifts in the top positions. Rick Macci, a renowned tennis coach, believes that Gauff is “knocking hard on the door” and poised to reach the top spot.

The outcome of the Madrid Open will likely have a significant impact on the WTA rankings, setting the stage for an exciting season of women’s tennis. The determination of Gauff and Pegula to seize the No. 2 spot promises intense competition and thrilling matches as the season progresses.