Ivanovic on the New Generation in WTA: "Sabalenka Has Truly Raised the Level of Women's Tennis"

Retired since 2016, former world No. 1 Ana Ivanovic was present in recent days at the Mutua Madrid Open. The Serbian, who won Roland-Garros in 2008, ended her career nearly ten years ago but continues to follow women's tennis.

In an interview with the tournament's official media, the former professional player, now 37 years old, reflected on the new generation of players on the WTA tour.

"I think there always comes a time when there’s a generational shift, and there are always years that feel like sabbatical years. After the retirements of Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova, we saw the same thing on the men’s side with the departures of Rafa (Nadal) and Roger (Federer).

But this new generation of women is very interesting to follow. Aryna Sabalenka has truly raised the level of women’s tennis with her strength and dominance.

Of course, there’s also Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff. It’s clear that the field is much stronger and deeper than it was a few years ago."

Ana Ivanovic then touched on how the new generation is striving to make changes to accelerate the growth of women's tennis.

"I must say I was lucky to play a professional sport that is probably the most popular among women. It’s very important to have that strength and send a message to the new generation, because we must respect our sport and help it grow.

Nowadays, the girls on the tour are contributing to all of this. We need rivalries between players, we need competition. These are the kinds of things that will allow women’s tennis to keep growing," concluded the Serbian in recent days.