Muguruza closed out a well contested and chaotic 2021 WTA finals in Guadalajara.

I was happy that the crown ended up in the hands of a two-time Grand Slam winner. The reason I was happy is that I am longing for a time where there was a better-defined hierarchy in women’s tennis. I think we need previous Grand Slam winners to remain at the top of the game and new Grand Slam winners to solidify their place at the top. This is not happening.

Throughout the last two years, and especially in 2021, we had major upsets at Grand Slams. We can somewhat attribute this to the injuries and absences of top players like Simona Halep, Serena Williams, and Naomi Osaka. It seemed that without those three players around, it was a bit easier for the field to take advantage.

Not to take any credit away from Ash Barty. She is still number one in my eyes. However, without players like Osaka around, there is nobody out there to truly contest her. I’m hoping 2022 brings back this much-needed balance to the WTA tour. If Osaka, Williams, Halep, Barty, and Muguruza are all healthy, the overall quality of the tour will increase. If indeed these ladies are all healthy, how will the Grand Slams shape up?

2022 Australian Open

At the Australian Open, the player to beat will be Naomi Osaka. She already holds two titles down under, and it’s tough to see anyone else hold a candle to her on a hard court. The only player that could come close is Ash Barty, who can get Osaka out of her flow with her all-court game.

2022 French Open

This is a tournament that belongs to players like Halep, Barty, Svitolina, and Muguruza. Halep, Barty, and Muguruza are all past champions. Svitolina has won big titles on clay. It will be exciting to see if Halep can return to form at the French Open. A Halep vs. Barty final would be a treat. Barty’s finesse against Halep’s grit.

2022 Wimbledon

This is the one tournament that Serena would have a chance in. She’ll need to get past the first week, and contend with players like Barty and Halep, both past champions if she wants to lift this trophy. Wimbledon is truly the only shot she has to win her 23rd Grand Slam. Can she do it?

2022 US Open

Again, Osaka will be the overwhelming favorite at this tournament. Nobody can hang with Osaka on hard courts. A healthy Osaka should be able to easily take the US Open title.

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