Tennis Growth Is Not Always Linear: Tauson’s Journey

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Clara Tauson’s Breakthrough

Clara Tauson’s journey on the WTA Tour has been anything but linear, but her breakthrough run at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is proof that persistence pays off.

The 22-year-old Dane has battled injuries, setbacks, and the pressure of following in the footsteps of Caroline Wozniacki. Now, she’s making a statement of her own.

A Career-Defining Week in Dubai

  • Defeated world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets
  • Won a tense battle against former world No. 3 Elina Svitolina
  • Came from behind to beat rising star Linda Noskova, saving a set point
  • Now ranked in the world’s Top 30 for the first time

This deep run marks a turning point—six years after her 2019 Australian Open junior title.

Tennis Growth Is Not Always Linear

While Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff turned junior success into Grand Slam titles, Tauson’s progress has been slower but steady.

She’s proving that success in tennis isn’t just about meteoric rises—it’s about endurance, adaptation, and persistence.

Similar to Madison Keys, who won her first Grand Slam at 29, Tauson is proving that patience is key.

What’s Changed? Coaching & Smart Training

  • New Coach: Tauson is now working with Kasper Elsvad—her boyfriend and former hitting partner
  • Stronger Backhand: A past weakness is now a reliable shot
  • Improved Movement: Better footwork has helped reduce errors
  • More Efficient Training: Shifted from long hours to short, high-intensity sessions to prevent injuries

“I was injured from quite a young age, but I hopefully still have many years left on the tour.” – Clara Tauson

Tauson’s Secret Weapon: The Serve

  • Leads the WTA in aces for 2025
  • First-serve points won:
    • 2023: 65.2%
    • 2024: 70.4%
    • 2025: 73.3%

Against Sabalenka:

  • Tauson landed 52% of first serves
  • Won 80% of first-serve points—a huge efficiency leap

Her serve is no longer just powerful—it’s precise and effective.