By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Monday February 5, 2024
Arina Rodionova turned pro in June of 2004. Nearly 20 years later she is finally a member of the WTA’s Top 100. The 34-year-old cracked that milestone this week, after reaching the quarterfinals at Hua Hin last week – she is the oldest player in WTA history to make a Top 100 debut.
Rodionova’s climb began last year when she won 78 matches across all levels and climbed from 302 to just outside the Top 100.
Also Read: Rodionova Torches Tennis Australia – I Am Not Liked
Rodionova, who first entered the Top 200 in 2010, had never been above 116 until this season.
Before Rodionova, Tzipora Obsiler was the oldest player to make a Top 100 debut in the WTA rankings. She achieved her milestone on February 19, 2007.
“I feel like I’m 10 years too late to the party, but I guess it’s better late than never. I’m glad I finally made it.”
Arina Rodionova reflects on her historic top-100 breakthrough 🤩#GoAussieshttps://t.co/kdP2s96X52
— TennisAustralia (@TennisAustralia) February 5, 2024
“It’s crazy,” Rodionova said, per the WTA website. “I feel like I’m 10 years too late to the party, but better late than never. I feel I deserve to be here because I put in so much work last year. I’m excited, and I’m going to try and enjoy this year.”
Top 50 for Burel
France’s Clara Burel, who reached the third round at the Australian Open, rises eight spots from 52 to 44 after reaching the quarterfinals in Linz. Burel, second among her compatriots, is one of three Frenchwomen in the Top 50 and one of five in the Top 100.
Top 10, Top 20 Quiet
There was no movement in the Top 10 this week, and only a few minor changes to the Top 20.
Linz champion Jelena Ostapenko moves from 12 to 11, while Linz finalist Ekaterina Alexandrova rises from 21 to 19.
Linz semifinalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova climbs eight spots from 42 to 34, for her best ranking since May of 2022.
China’s Wang Yafan jumps 10 spots from 78 to 68 thanks to a semifinal run in Hua Hin, while Russia’s Diana Shnaider returns to the Top 100, rising 35 spots to No.73 after winning the title at Hua Hin.
The MOMENT ✨
Diana Shnaider is crowned the champion in Thailand after defeating Zhu Lin 6-3, 2-6, 6-1. #ThailandOpen pic.twitter.com/DAYjys9FBS
— wta (@WTA) February 4, 2024
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