The 2022 tennis season has wrapped up, and tennis enthusiasts have what looks to be another incredible season to look forward to. There are a few events that have already happened this year, but none are more exciting or bigger than the Grand Slams.
Whether they’re played on a hard surface, clay, or grass, you can be sure to witness some fantastic displays of skill and speed.
We thought it would be fun to focus on those players who are about to take off in 2023. So, without further delay, let’s talk about the tennis stars to watch out for this year.
1. Iga Swiatek
Swiatek is undoubtedly a player you should watch live if there is a chance. Hailing from Poland, she is a mere 21 years old but has already accumulated over $11 million from her tennis career alone.
2022 saw her on a 37-match winning streak, as well as winning the Roland-Garros and two Grand Slams. In one year, she managed to cement herself as a certified tennis star and a worthy opponent no matter where she competes.
The heat is on to be number one in 2023, but Swiatek’s fans aren’t too worried. Just like she rose to the challenge in 2022, she will do so in 2023.
2. Carlos Alcaraz
At just 19 years old, Alcaraz has already had seven ATP Tour singles victories, including the 2022 US Open and two Masters 1000 championships. Alcaraz won the US Open at the mere age of 19 years, 4 months, and 6 days, and he has become the first teenager to hold the No. 1 spot in the men’s rankings during the Open Era and the youngest-ever men’s world No. 1.
He openly names Rafael Nadal as his inspiration, so it’s no wonder his court approach is similar—it is physical and in-your-face. Fans love when he does the famous drop-shot that can be played anywhere on the court, so seeing him live is worth it if you can.
3. Ons Jabeur
It looks like 2023 is going to be filled with history-makers, including this incredible female tennis player, Jabeur, who hails from Tunisia. She reached her highest Women’s Tennis Association ranking of No. 2 on June 27, 2022. She is the highest-ranked African and Arab tennis player ever according to the WTA and ATP rankings and is also No. 1 in Tunisia.
People often say that Jabeur’s style of play is unpredictable because she uses shots that aren’t typical but have deadly spin and accuracy. Although she’s tough to play against, spectators love to watch her highly entertaining gameplay.
4. Veronika Kudermetova
While there can be no doubt that Iga Swiatek is leagues ahead of her female tennis counterparts, there are still some that are worthy of mention. One of these is Veronika Kudermetova, who, at just 25 years old, is slowly but surely catching up with Swiatek.
She reached her highest WTA doubles ranking of No. 2 on June 6, 2022, and a career-high singles position of No. 9 on October 24, 2022. When it comes to baseline exchanges, the Russian is impressive, beating even Jabeur statistically. Kudermetova is a favorite this season because of her broad, distinctive, and adaptable skill set.