Top Tennis Moments of 2025 

December 22nd, 2025 by Carlota

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The 2025 tennis season delivered unforgettable matches, dominant champions, breakout performances, and emotional announcements that reshaped the sport. From elite rivalries at the top of the rankings to young stars making their mark, this year reminded us why tennis continues to captivate players and fans alike.

Here’s our expert recap of the top tennis moments of 2025, including ATP and WTA Players of the Year, the most improved players, newcomers of the year, and what to expect heading into the 2026 season.

ATP Player of the Year 2025: Carlos Alcaraz

Carlos Alcaraz solidified his place as the face of men’s tennis in 2025. Finishing the season as ATP World No. 1, Alcaraz captured two Grand Slam titles (Roland-Garros and the U.S. Open) and consistently delivered his best tennis on the sport’s biggest stages.

His high-profile rivalry with Jannik Sinner (also winner of two Grand Slams) defined the ATP Tour this year, producing electric matches that showcased the speed, power, and athleticism of the modern game. Alcaraz’s ability to dominate from the baseline while transitioning forward made him nearly unbeatable across surfaces.

Why it matters: Alcaraz’s success continues to influence how today’s competitive players approach aggressive baseline tennis, spin-heavy groundstrokes, and all-court movement

WTA Player of the Year 2025: Aryna Sabalenka

Aryna Sabalenka earned WTA Player of the Year honors for the second consecutive season, thanks to her dominance throughout 2025. She finished the year as World No. 1, reached multiple Grand Slam finals, and defended her U.S. Open title.

Sabalenka’s explosive serve and relentless baseline power proved once again that controlled aggression remains a winning formula at the highest level of women’s tennis.

Why it matters: Sabalenka’s consistency across a full season highlights the importance of physical conditioning, mental toughness, and equipment setups designed for power and stability.

Most Improved ATP Players of 2025

Several players made major ranking jumps in 2025, showing that development doesn’t stop once players reach the professional level.

Standout Improvements

* Ben Shelton (USA): Broke into the ATP Top 10 and became a regular presence in the late rounds of Grand Slams.

*João Fonseca (Brazil): Transitioned from rising junior to ATP title contender, finishing the year inside the Top 30.

* Valentin Vacherot: Surprised the tennis world with deep Masters runs (winner of the ATP 1000 Shanghai Masters tournament) and wins over top-ranked opponents.

Takeaway for players: Incremental improvements in serve efficiency, shot decision, and fitness can translate into massive ranking gains. Additionally, resiliency and hard work even when the results are not showing proved to be critical in the case of Vacherot. 

WTA Most Improved Player of 2025: Amanda Anisimova

Amanda Anisimova was named WTA Most Improved Player after a breakout season that included major titles, deep Grand Slam runs, and a climb into the Top 5.

Her improved consistency and mental resilience transformed her into one of the most dangerous players on tour, particularly on hard courts.

Key insight: Anisimova’s season reinforced how confidence and match volume can unlock elite-level performance.

ATP Newcomer of the Year 2025: Learner Tien

Learner Tien emerged as one of the brightest young talents in men’s tennis. Winning the Next Gen ATP Finals, he also recorded several wins over established Top-10 players and finished the year ranked among the tour’s rising stars.

His tactical awareness and calm demeanor under pressure stood out well beyond his years.

WTA Newcomer of the Year 2025: Victoria Mboko

Victoria Mboko delivered one of the most impressive ranking climbs of the season. Starting outside the Top 300, she surged into the Top 20 after winning a WTA 1000 title and consistently challenging elite competition.

Her fearless baseline play and athletic defense made her one of the most exciting players to watch in 2025.

Defining Tennis Storylines of 2025

Elite Rivalries: Alcaraz vs. Sinner elevated match quality across the ATP Tour and produced perhaps one of the best tennis matches ever at the Roland-Garros final.

Record Prize Money: Women’s tennis continued to set new financial milestones.

Depth of Talent: Both tours saw increased competitiveness from top to bottom.

Looking Ahead to 2026: Coaching Changes, Farewells & New Chapters

As the tennis world turns its attention to 2026, several major developments are already shaping the narrative.

One of the biggest headlines is Carlos Alcaraz’s split from longtime coach Juan Carlos Ferrero. After 7 years of success together, including multiple Grand Slam titles, the separation marks a pivotal moment in Alcaraz’s career. How he adapts to a new coaching structure could influence the ATP landscape in the seasons ahead.

Meanwhile, Stan Wawrinka announced that 2026 will be his final year on tour. The three-time Grand Slam champion leaves behind a legacy defined by powerful one-handed backhands, unforgettable victories, and legendary battles against the sport’s greatest players. Fans will be savoring every match as Wawrinka takes his final lap around the tennis world.

Final Thoughts from Do It Tennis

The 2025 season showcased everything we love about tennis: dominance, resilience, evolution, and emotion. As players continue to push the limits of performance, the right preparation — from training to equipment — remains essential at every level of the game.

At Do It Tennis, we’re inspired by the pros and committed to helping players of all levels find the gear and knowledge they need to elevate their game in 2026 and beyond. Cheers to everything 2025 has provided us and let's see what 2026 has in store.

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