Jabeur Shines with Double Player Service Awards, While Furlan Takes Coach of the Year

Jabeur, Furlan, and Sabalenka Shine at 2024 WTA Awards

The 2024 WTA Awards week has unveiled a host of remarkable achievements, with several standout tennis figures receiving well-deserved honors. Among the most notable winners are Renzo Furlan, Ons Jabeur, and Aryna Sabalenka, who each earned prestigious awards for their exceptional contributions to the sport.

Renzo Furlan has been named Coach of the Year, a recognition that highlights his pivotal role in the rise of Jasmine Paolini. Under Furlan’s guidance, Paolini experienced a career-defining season, climbing from a Top 30 player to a career-high No. 4 in the world. Paolini’s remarkable accomplishments included winning her first WTA 1000 title at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, reaching back-to-back Grand Slam finals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, and qualifying for her first WTA Finals in both singles and doubles. Furlan’s coaching expertise also helped Paolini achieve three Top 10 wins and win the gold medal in doubles at the Paris Olympics, alongside her partner Sara Errani. This incredible season has solidified Furlan’s reputation as one of the most influential coaches in women’s tennis.

Ons Jabeur made history by becoming the first player to win the Karen Krantzcke Sportsmanship Award and the Peachy Kellmeyer Player Service Award in back-to-back years. These honors are voted on by her peers on the WTA Tour, and Jabeur’s graciousness and commitment to fair play have made her a beloved figure in the tennis community. The Karen Krantzcke Sportsmanship Award is given in recognition of Jabeur’s gracious and considerate manner both on and off the court, while the Peachy Kellmeyer Player Service Award acknowledges her outstanding efforts in supporting her fellow players. Jabeur has also been a strong advocate for the wider player community, making significant contributions to the sport’s development and well-being. Her double win at the 2024 WTA Awards further cements her as one of the sport’s most admired figures.

In addition to Jabeur’s recognition, Aryna Sabalenka received the prestigious Jerry Diamond ACES Award, which honors players who have made a significant impact on promoting women’s tennis. This award is named after the former WTA CEO Jerry Diamond and recognizes athletes who contribute to the sport off the court, especially through charitable and promotional activities. Sabalenka has been a passionate advocate for women’s tennis, consistently working to promote the sport to fans, media, and local communities. Her dedication to women’s sport and her impactful off-court contributions have made her a key figure in the tennis world. Previous winners of the ACES Award include stars such as Angelique Kerber, Elina Svitolina, and Jessica Pegula, and now Sabalenka joins their ranks with this well-deserved honor.

The 2024 WTA Awards have highlighted the incredible achievements of these three players, each of whom has made significant contributions to the sport. Jabeur, with her sportsmanship and commitment to her fellow players, has earned the admiration of fans and competitors alike. Furlan, as Coach of the Year, has been instrumental in Paolini’s meteoric rise, while Sabalenka continues to champion women’s tennis both on and off the court. These awards serve as a reminder of the dedication, talent, and hard work that shape the world of professional tennis.