The battle for spots at the 2025 WTA Finals in Riyadh has ignited into a thrilling showdown as Madison Keys and Amanda Anisimova officially punched their tickets. With Coco Gauff already qualified, American representation promises to be formidable, joining a star-studded lineup featuring Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Świątek. Gauff’s year-long consistency, Keys’ Australian Open triumph, and Anisimova’s landmark achievements have cemented their places, leaving the final three spots fiercely contested. Now, all eyes turn to Jessica Pegula as she navigates one of the tightest points battles in recent WTA history with Russian sensation Mirra Andreeva, as from now, every match, every set, could decide her destiny in Saudi Arabia.

Jessica Pegula currently occupies a more precarious spot in the WTA live race. With 4,598 points, she sits 5th, just ahead of challengers like Mirra Andreeva (4,309) and Elena Rybakina (3,806). Despite the tight margins, Pegula has enjoyed her career-best season, capturing three titles (Bad Homburg, Charleston, Austin) and reaching two finals (Miami and Adelaide). A seasoned campaigner, Pegula has played in the last three WTA Finals editions, reaching the final in 2023. 

On the other hand, Coco Gauff has been the torchbearer for American tennis, amassing 5,574 points in the WTA Live Race and leading the charge with consistency and flair. Madison Keys secured her spot early in the season after her AO win, maintaining momentum with semifinal runs in London and Indian Wells, solidifying her qualification for Riyadh and her position as the No. 6 player in the WTA rankings.

Amanda Anisimova has crafted one of her most remarkable campaigns to date, reaching back-to-back Grand Slam finals at Wimbledon and the US Open and capturing her first WTA 1000 title in Doha. Her surge reflects both resilience and growth, positioning her as a formidable contender heading into the season finale.

Anisimova’s ongoing journey in Beijing at the China Open has only added to the intrigue. Rallying from a set down, she defeated sixth seed Jasmine Paolini 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-4 in the QF, sealing her maiden WTA Finals qualification before claiming the tournament title. The American now sits at No. 3 in the WTA rankings with 5,908 points, showcasing her meteoric rise.

Now, with the support of passionate Chinese fans and her form peaking at the right moment, Pegula has the opportunity to solidify her place among the season’s elite. Every match, every set in Wuhan could tip the scales, making this a defining week for her Riyadh ambitions.

Jessica Pegula soaks up adoration in Beijing crowd

Despite falling in the semifinals at the China Open, Jessica Pegula made it clear how much she values the energy of the Chinese fans. “I’ve definitely noticed it a lot this year. Last year I noticed it, but I don’t know why it feels like more this year,” she said warmly, acknowledging the special atmosphere that has made her feel increasingly embraced on the court.

What added to her delight was the revelation: “Now I have a nickname.” Pegula’s words highlighted the depth of connection she feels with her supporters, who go beyond cheering for her matches to engaging with her personal projects and interests off the court.

She praised the creativity of her Chinese fanbase, noting, “I think they’re so creative with a lot of off-court stuff, doing stuff for the podcast that we started. They’re very creative, I keep saying. Like, they definitely research a lot of things.” Her admiration for their dedication reflects how invested the fans are in her journey, both on and off the court.

The 31-year-old also reflected on how her experiences in China have evolved. “Even though I did feel it last year, this year it feels like it’s a lot more. I’m not sure why. Maybe over the years gaining fans and stuff like that. Or maybe I’m just embracing it a little bit more,” she admitted, revealing a newfound openness to the love and support surrounding her.

Looking ahead, Pegula now turns her attention to the Wuhan Open, beginning tomorrow. With a tough first-round matchup against a fellow American Hailey Baptiste, every point will be crucial as she looks to solidify her WTA Finals qualification.