"We didn't play a prominent role": Barbara Rittner complains of weak year for German players on WTA Tour
WTA
Barbara
Rittner expressed her overall dissatisfaction with the performance of German
women in the 2023 tennis season, particularly highlighting the absence of any
player finishing the year in the top 50.
Rittner,
the women's representative of the German Tennis Association, emphasized that
such a result does not align with their standards. She stated, "If none of
our women finishes the year in the top 50, the year cannot have been okay. That
cannot be our claim."
The absence
of former world number one Angelique Kerber, who took a break this year due to
the birth of her daughter, contributed to the challenges faced by the German
women's tennis contingent.
Currently,
Tatjana Maria holds the highest ranking among German players at number 57.
Despite the challenges, Rittner acknowledged the personal success of Laura
Siegemund and Tatjana Maria, who secured victory in the doubles competition at
the WTA Finals.
Reflecting
on the performance in Grand Slams, Rittner noted that German women did not play
a prominent role. She pointed out the lack of consistency among younger players
and stressed the importance of supporting and nurturing emerging talents.
Rittner
specifically mentioned the need for Jule Niemeier to regain her form after
slipping to 162nd place in the world rankings, following her Wimbledon
quarterfinal appearance in 2022.
In the
Billie Jean King Cup, the German tennis women faced a 3-0 defeat against Italy
in Seville. Despite falling short of the semi-finals, Rittner viewed the team's
performance positively, considering the qualification for the final round as a
significant success. Reflecting on the outcome, Rittner stated,
"Basically, you have to leave the church in the village. The fact that we
qualified for the final round was a huge success."
Even though
the team hoped for a different outcome in the second preliminary round against
France, Rittner acknowledged the challenging reality, stating, "Of course
we hoped, desired, and imagined it differently. But it was clear to us that we
were outsiders, so you just have to look at the paper. It's simply
reality."
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.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
