With Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula making shock early exits from the latest Grand Slam, the women’s draw has cracked wide open — and now the big question looms: who stands to benefit the most from the power vacuum? Is this Iga Swiatek’s moment to tighten her grip on the WTA throne, or will Aryna Sabalenka pounce and add more fire to her already booming year? Or could teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva sneak in and steal the spotlight entirely?
Let’s start with the world No.1, Iga Swiatek. She’s already proven that consistency is her superpower. With Gauff out — one of the few players who’s managed to rattle her — Swiatek’s path to the final seems less thorny. The Polish star thrives under pressure, and without Pegula in the mix, she avoids a tricky tactical opponent who often forces longer, grinding matches. Swiatek might just glide through — unless nerves or an inspired challenger catch her off guard.
Then there’s Aryna Sabalenka. The Belarusian powerhouse has been all about high-octane tennis this season. Her fearless style makes her the most explosive contender left in the draw. With Gauff, her occasional kryptonite, now eliminated, Sabalenka has a psychological edge and a clear runway to go full throttle. She’s hungry, aggressive, and eager to add another Slam to her résumé — and this could be her golden chance.
But don’t count out the wildcard: Mirra Andreeva. The 17-year-old Russian has been quietly building a reputation as a fearless up-and-comer with court maturity well beyond her years. With Gauff and Pegula gone, Andreeva could pull off a Cinderella run, facing less-experienced or lower-ranked opponents in the next rounds. If she handles the spotlight, she might not just be the biggest winner — she could become the breakout star of the tournament.
The exits of Gauff and Pegula didn’t just shake up the bracket; they opened the mental floodgates. Every remaining player now sees opportunity, not just in the draw, but in their belief. That’s where champions are made — not just in power or technique, but in recognizing the moment and seizing it.
So who’s the biggest winner? If Iga holds form, she reasserts dominance. If Sabalenka storms through, she redefines the pecking order. But if Andreeva rises, we could be witnessing the start of a brand-new era.
Tennis fans, buckle up. The women’s draw just got spicy — and someone’s about to make a statement.
