Although a few top players were notably missing from the WTA finals, the excitement, amazing location, and crazy fans made this edition one of the best ones yet. Given everything that is happening with China right now with the disappearance of Peng Shuai, the WTA should consider Guadalajara as a true contender for future finals moving forward.

Let’s start with the fans.

Never mind the big names that were absent due to injury or withdrawals. The set of players that qualified seemed to feed off the wonderful fans all week long. The rallies were electrified, players seemed to punch above their weight in matches, and it made for the most exciting tennis I’ve seen on TV for a long time. Fans from around the world should take notice. Guadalajara brought a new level of passion for the game which I had not seen before. It was a joyous passion.

Muguruza is back.

Now on to the implications of the actual player results. One must tip their hat to Muguruza, who was able to regroup mentally after a mediocre second half of the season. First, she won the Chicago Open, and then qualified for the WTA Finals and won it. Also, she won it against arguably the most dangerous player on tour right now. Kontaveit has been finding her form lately, winning back-to-back tournaments to qualify for the finals. This was a quality win for Muguruza.

Her return to the top of Women’s tennis is now complete. Let’s not forget she started the season with a bang, making the finals at Qatar and winning Dubai.

The future is bright.

I didn’t mind the fact that Barty, Williams, Osaka, and Halep were missing. I don’t think it would have made a difference. I think players such as Sabalenka, Muguruza, and Kontaveit would have given them a run for their money regardless. These players are in top form and will undoubtedly make some damage in 2022. Expect big runs at Grand Slams from these ladies. Especially because I don’t see either Williams or Osaka coming back any time soon. Halep will need some time to recover, and Barty has a massive target on her back. It will be a fun 2022 on the WTA tour!

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