“Stupid questions”: Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina share hilarious TikTok ahead of WTA Finals
WTA
Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina have joined forces for a playful TikTok video ahead of the 2026 WTA Finals, giving fans a glimpse of their personalities away from the tennis court. The three Grand Slam champions appear together in a short clip featuring a humorous exchange told entirely through on-screen captions and their reactions, with Sabalenka providing the punchline.
The video begins with Gauff and Rybakina posing for the camera as the caption reads: "Should we get a group shot?" Both players make questioning gestures before the scene cuts to Sabalenka, who appears to dismiss the idea with the words: "We don't have time."
The clip then switches back to Gauff and Rybakina, with another caption appearing: "For what?" Sabalenka subsequently returns to the screen, accompanied by the punchline: "Stupid questions." The final scene brings all three players together as they walk towards the camera, showing off their outfits in a playful fashion.
Sabalenka, Gauff and Rybakina show different sides away from tennis
Although Sabalenka and Gauff are no strangers to TikTok content, regularly sharing videos and entertaining their followers, Rybakina is considerably less active on social media. Her appearance alongside the two fellow stars therefore makes the collaboration particularly interesting.
The three players are also among the biggest names in women's tennis, with Sabalenka and Gauff having established themselves as regular contenders for major titles, while Rybakina arrives at the season-ending tournament as the defending WTA Finals champion.
The timing of the video is also notable, with the eight-player singles field preparing for the season's final major showdown in Indian Wells, scheduled for November 8-15.
WTA expands TikTok partnership ahead of season-ending Finals
The video also comes shortly after the WTA announced an expanded global content partnership with TikTok on November 2, as the organisation looks to strengthen its digital presence and connect with younger audiences.
The collaboration builds on the tour's existing presence on the platform, with WTA-related content generating more than 250 million combined video views and engagements in 2026, representing a 41% increase year-on-year. Posts using the #WTA hashtag have also grown by more than 50% over the past year.
The expanded agreement includes TikTok GamePlan, a dedicated experience bringing together tournament content through hubs covering selected WTA events, including the WTA Finals. It also introduces the WTA Creator Club, providing digital creators with opportunities to access tournaments and produce behind-the-scenes content.
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One of the first initiatives was the exclusive livestream of the 2026 WTA Finals draw ceremony on November 3, marking the first time the event was broadcast live on TikTok.
With more tennis stars embracing social media to connect with fans beyond their performances, the collaboration with TikTok represents another step in the WTA's efforts to make its leading players more accessible. Sabalenka, Gauff and Rybakina's latest video offers a light-hearted example of how that strategy can bring the personalities behind the rankings into the spotlight.
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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