The 2025 tennis season has concluded, leaving behind unforgettable moments. Showcasing extraordinary balance and talent, five distinct players secured victories in the four majors and the WTA Finals.
Each tournament told its own story, transitioning from hard courts to clay, then grass, and back to hard courts, ultimately culminating in an unforgettable week in Riyadh.
As the offseason begins, we reflect on the year’s standout moments, biggest surprises, and most thrilling matches.
To kick off this retrospective series, our experts share their thoughts on the most unforgettable event of 2025.
Coco Triumphs in Paris
Brad Kallet: Although I considered Jasmine Paolini’s historic win in Rome as the first Italian woman to achieve this in 40 years, I am opting for Coco Gauff’s triumph at Roland Garros. After dropping the first set to Aryna Sabalenka in the final, she rallied to capture the next two sets, claiming her first major title in 21 months. An American victory at the French Open always resonates, reminding everyone that Gauff remains among the top three players in the world.
Ito Shines in Montreal
Alex Macpherson: I’m choosing a standout moment: Aoi Ito converting match point against Paolini during the second round in Montreal with a SABA (Sneak Attack by Aoi). As a qualifier ranked No. 110, she faced a Top 10 opponent for the first time. Having recovered from a match point down in the second set, Ito wowed fans with her unconventional playing style. In the decisive moments, she executed a half-volley return and raced to the net for a volley, marking her first career-best win before sidelining herself due to a back injury.
Keys Breaks New Ground in Melbourne
Greg Garber: For my pick, it’s Madison Keys’ inspiring performance at the Australian Open. While her talent has always been evident, it rarely translated into Grand Slam success. After 45 attempts, she finally secured a major victory in Melbourne, defeating notable players like Elena Rybakina and Aryna Sabalenka.
Iconic Return in D.C.
Noah Poser: The highlight has to be Venus Williams’ return to the court after a 16-month hiatus, making headlines with a win over Peyton Stearns in Washington, D.C. At 45, she became the oldest player to win a Hologic WTA Tour singles match in over 21 years, achieving her first singles win in nearly two years. She also impressed at the US Open, pushing Karolina Muchova to three sets before losing in the first round, and joined Leylah Fernandez to reach the quarterfinals in doubles.
Celebrating 40 Years of Italian Victory
Cole Bambini: Winning at home holds special significance, especially after a lengthy gap. Jasmine Paolini brought joy by winning the Internazional BNL d’Italia, the first for an Italian since 1985, thrilling the crowd in attendance. With Italian President Sergio Mattarella present, Paolini clinched victory over Gauff in just 89 minutes, marking her second WTA 1000 title, followed by a doubles win alongside Sara Errani the next day.
A Heartwarming Moment in Abu Dhabi
Matt Wilansky: Belinda Bencic proved she hasn’t lost her touch, clinching the Abu Dhabi title ten months after giving birth. Her shots were precise, and her court awareness was intact—the tennis flowed as if she had never been away. However, the most touching moment came post-match, where she celebrated by sharing a kiss with her daughter during the trophy presentation.
