"Probably the best player in the draw playing indoors": Rennae Stubbs on Elena Rybakina's WTA Finals prospects
WTA
Rennae
Stubbs, former coach of Serena Williams, considers that Elena Rybakina may be
the best player in the 2024 WTA Finals Draw when it comes to playing on indoor
hardcourts. The Kazakh has had a peculiar season, marked by frequent
withdrawals due to physical issues and recently reported mental health
struggles.
However,
when she competed, she consistently made deep runs, winning three titles and
reaching two more finals. Despite not playing in over two months, she holds a
record of 41-9 (82%), outperforming other players in the draw who played the
full season, such as Jasmine Paolini (37-17) and Jessica Pegula (38-13).
There’s
little doubt that Rybakina is one of the best players of the past three years,
although her time away raises questions about her current level. Stubbs
commented on her podcast that it’s hard to predict how the 25-year-old Kazakh
will perform in the tournament.
"I
don’t know how Elena is going to do. It’s going to be a very big test for her.
Who is going to be coaching her? Who is she there with? That’s all stuff that I
could probably find out on my own without putting it out into the ether, but if
you want to let me know, do it."
Read also
Stubbs
added that Rybakina is likely the best player suited for an indoor hardcourt
environment, even over Aryna Sabalenka or Iga Swiatek. "But it will be
interesting. Look, she plays really good tennis indoors. She is probably at her
best, probably the best player in the draw playing indoors," Stubbs added.
Rybakina is
set to debut on Saturday, November 2, against the 4th seed Jasmine Paolini. She
also shares a group with Zheng Qinwen and Aryna Sabalenka in the round robin
stage, where the top two players will advance.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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