Coco Gauff is currently at a career-high ranking and has a chance to replace Aryna Sabalenka as World No. 2 by the end of the Madrid Open.
Gauff and Sabalenka are currently 590 points apart in the official WTA rankings. Sabalenka, as the defending champion, cannot gain points but must defend her 6848 points. Gauff, on the other hand, only needs to defend 65 points and can potentially gain 935 points to challenge for the World No. 2 spot.
The battle for the No. 2 ranking depends on Sabalenka defending her title and Gauff’s performance in the tournament. If Sabalenka retains the crown, she will stay at No. 2 with 7848 points, while Gauff can reach 7843 points if she finishes as the runner-up. They could potentially meet in the final to determine the No. 2 ranking.
Sabalenka’s path to securing her position in the top two is clearer compared to Gauff’s challenge, especially if Gauff faces Swiatek in the semifinals. Gauff needs Sabalenka not to win the tournament to have a shot at a new career-high ranking.
The outcome of the Madrid Open will have significant implications for both players, as they battle for the prestigious World No. 2 ranking.
