Aryna Sabalenka Overtakes Iga Swiatek as New WTA World No. 1

A controversial WTA rule requiring participation in six WTA 500 events has impacted Iga Swiatek's ranking, allowing Aryna Sabalenka to ascend to the top spot.

Aryna Sabalenka has become the new WTA World No. 1, surpassing Iga Swiatek due to a controversial rule change.
The WTA rule mandates players participate in six WTA 500 events, impacting rankings with zero-pointers for missed tournaments.
Sabalenka's participation in four WTA 500 events this season helped her accumulate enough points to overtake Swiatek.
Critics, including players like Sloane Stephens, have voiced concerns over the rule's impact on player health and scheduling.
Despite the ranking shift, both Sabalenka and Swiatek continue to push each other to improve, with their rivalry being a key driver of their success.