Note: Throughout December, wtatennis.com is featuring a series of interviews with players ready to make an impact in 2026 following impressive comebacks or breakthroughs in 2025.
Caty McNally’s Journey
During Wimbledon this year, Caty McNally initially held her own against Iga Swiatek, showcasing her chip-and-charge strategy. Despite a promising start, Swiatek ultimately won the match, but it represented a significant personal milestone for McNally, who once partnered with Swiatek to win the 2018 Roland Garros girls’ doubles title.
A Challenging Low Point
Reflecting on her experience, McNally described Wimbledon 2023 as the lowest point in her career, where she struggled with injuries and pain. After suffering a loss to British wild card Jodie Burrage, she found herself sidelined for over six months, facing consecutive injuries that began to escalate leading up to the tournament.
Injury Struggles
Her troubles began in Rome when she noticed elbow pain, which she initially dismissed. However, a torn hamstring shortly after forced her to withdraw from subsequent tournaments and began a series of rehabilitation efforts. Ultimately, McNally was diagnosed with a ulnar collateral ligament issue, an injury more commonly associated with baseball players.
Recovery and Comeback
Aiming to avoid surgery, McNally pursued treatment options like platelet-rich plasma injections but faced setbacks when the elbow issue resurfaced. Following further evaluation, she opted for surgery, marking a turning point in her career. Making her return in November 2024, she celebrated victory in her third tournament back, reinstating her confidence and setting up a return to the Top 100 in 2025.
A Full-Circle Moment
A notable moment at Wimbledon came when McNally faced Burrage again in the first round, where she delivered a decisive win, culminating a remarkable turnaround from her previous encounter. After a successful summer marked by a 10-match winning streak and two titles, she found joy in her game once more, particularly during her win at the Newport WTA 125.
Growth and Future Aspirations
Throughout her recovery, McNally focused on understanding her body and enhancing her physical strength, moving beyond an injury-centric approach. With a fresh perspective, she is eager about 2026, especially after receiving an unexpected message from doubles legend Barbora Krejcikova, expressing interest in teaming up for the next season. McNally is excited to learn from Krejcikova, as she aims for success in both singles and doubles.
