WTA Breakthrough players for 2025

The significance of their breakthrough extends beyond the sport itself, inspiring individuals worldwide. Let’s examine the women’s tennis players who enjoyed a breakthrough year.

Amanda Anisimova

One of the standout players of the 2025 season is undoubtedly Amanda Anisimova. She began the season ranked 36th in the world but finished the year within the top 5. Her ascent and introduction to the tennis world started in February with her maiden Qatar Ladies Masters title, secured by defeating Jelena Ostapenko in a convincing 6-4, 6-3 win. This victory marked her as the first American player to win the title since Monica Seles achieved it in the 2002 edition. Anisimova, 24, sustained her exceptional form, reaching her first Wimbledon Open final, where she was defeated by Iga Swiatek. She also reached the US Open final, only to lose to Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets. To cap off the year, she claimed her second Masters title at the China Open and qualified for the WTA Finals, advancing to the semifinals.

Victoria Mboko

At the outset of the year, Victoria Mboko’s world ranking stood at 333, with her name being relatively unknown among tennis enthusiasts. By the year’s conclusion, however, she had ascended to number 18 in the global rankings. The 19-year-old Canadian tennis player produced a spectacular tournament run during the Canadian Open, ultimately emerging as the champion. In the round of 16, she defeated the pre-tournament favorite Coco Gauff to reach her first Masters Tournament quarterfinals. She then overcame Jessica Maneiro to become the youngest player to reach the semifinals in Canada since Belinda Bencic in 2015. In the semifinals, she dispatched Elena Rybakina to book a spot in the final. Finally, she triumphed over Naomi Osaka to win the title. Moreover, she also secured victory at the Hong Kong Open, ending the year on a triumphant note.

Iva Jovic

Mid-year, Iva Jovic achieved a groundbreaking feat by becoming the youngest player to enter the WTA’s top 100 rankings. At just 17 years old, the American tennis player began to attract fans globally. In September, Jovic’s remarkable journey continued as she secured her first WTA Title at the Guadalajara Open in Mexico. Her impressive 6-4, 6-1 victory over Emiliana Arango of Colombia earned her a place among the elite titleholders. Jovic’s win was particularly noteworthy, as she became the youngest player to win a WTA Title since Coco Gauff’s victory four years prior, ultimately ranking 35th globally.