Following our look at the top ATP Players here, here’s a look at the prospects of the top WTA players.
Serena Williams
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Ended 2017: Did not play after winning the Australian Open due to giving birth to her first child.
Starting 2018: Played (and lost) an exhibition match against Jelena Ostapenko right before the new year, and after the match stated she’s not sure if she’s fully ready yet to return to competitive play.
Coaching Changes: None
Prospects: It will take her some time to get back to being 100%, but without any other player stepping up to lead the tour in her absence, Serena should be competing for major titles again later in the year.
Simona Halep
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Ended 2017: As the new number one player in the world, but failing to advance out of the round robin stages of the WTA Finals.
Starting 2018: She’s the top seed in the Shenzhen Open.
Coaching Changes: None
Prospects: I fear Halep will be the next Slam-less WTA number one to struggle as the top-ranked player. After suffering so many heartbreaking losses at majors in 2017, 2018 may be a tough year for Simona.
Garbine Muguruza
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Ended 2017: Dropping the number one ranking after going just 5-5 following the US Open.
Starting 2018: Forced to retire due to cramps in her first match of the year in Brisbane.
Coaching Changes: None
Prospects: Muguruza can go from such highs to such lows in the matter of just a few matches, so it’s hard to know what to expect of the two-time major winner from week-to-week.
Caroline Wozniacki
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Ended 2017: Winning the biggest title of her career at the WTA Finals.
Starting 2018: As the top seed in Aucklund.
Coaching Changes: None
Prospects: She comes into 2018 with a lot of momentum, and could easily regain the number one ranking. However, a major title will likely continue to elude her due to her defensive playing style.
