WTA Finals underway, but the players aren't happy

Oct 30, 2023

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The WTA Finals in Cancun have begun, but the build up to the event was marred by strong player criticism about the venue, with limited practice time and a Centre Court which was only just ready for action. Catherine and Matt are joined by special guest Pam Shriver to discuss how and why this happened, the current state of the WTA, and the possible future of this event.

On the court, Karolina Muchova's withdrawal was felt as replacement Maria Sakkari was thrashed by Aryna Sabalenka, and Jessica Pegula beat Elena Rybakina in straight sets. There's analysis of those matches, predictions for the week ahead, and investigations into why Iga Swiatek was the only player wearing red for the official photo.

Elsewhere, there's praise for Zhuhai champion Beatriz Haddad Maia and finalist Zheng Qinwen, lots of admiration for Jannik Sinner's form after his title in Vienna, and joy at seeing Felix Auger-Aliassime get out of his slump. We also cover Jenson Brooksby's suspension, a big step for Wimbledon in their development plans, and the use of data analytics in tennis.

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