On September 11, 2023, the final tennis major of the season concluded with Coco Gauff and Novak Djokovic emerging as the victors at the US Open. Gauff, at just 19 years old, secured her first Grand Slam title by defeating Aryna Sabalenka, the new world No. 1, in an intense match. Djokovic, on the other hand, claimed his fourth US Open championship and his 24th major title overall, a feat that matched Margaret Court’s record for the most in history. The 2023 major season saw the rise of promising talents such as Gauff, Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Marketa Vondrousova, Djokovic, and Carlos Alcaraz.
As the tennis world takes a breather before the next Grand Slam event in four months, fans and experts are already speculating about who will emerge victorious in 2024. However, to keep it interesting, this prediction exercise will limit each player to winning only one major title next year. Let’s take a closer look at each major tournament and discuss the potential winners for the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open in 2024.
Australian Open Prediction:
Date: January 15-28, 2024
Location: Melbourne
Defending Champions: Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka
Men’s Winner: Carlos Alcaraz
Despite missing the 2023 Australian Open due to a hamstring injury, the 20-year-old Spanish sensation has already proven his prowess on the hard court by winning the US Open in 2022 and Indian Wells earlier this year. Alcaraz’s disappointing semifinal loss at the US Open will only motivate him further, and his reenergized and refocused state will make him a force to be reckoned with in Melbourne.
Women’s Winner: Coco Gauff
After an outstanding performance on the hard court this summer, including her US Open triumph, Gauff has established herself as a player to watch. The 19-year-old American not only possesses immense talent but also has the self-belief and mental maturity required to win on the biggest stages. With her red-hot form and confidence, Gauff seems poised for another standout year, which could start with an Australian Open victory.
French Open Prediction:
Date: May 26-June 9, 2024
Location: Paris
Defending Champions: Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek
Men’s Winner: Rafael Nadal
Although Rafael Nadal has been absent from competition since January due to a serious hip injury, the “King of Clay” is synonymous with success at the French Open. With 14 titles to his name, Nadal has dominated the clay court of Roland Garros like no other player in history. Even if he’s not at 100% in 2024, his unrivaled determination and expertise on the surface make him a formidable contender for another victory.
Women’s Winner: Iga Swiatek
The 2022 French Open champion, Swiatek, faced challenges in the 2023 season and admitted to feeling fatigued after a long year. However, the offseason will provide her with much-needed rest and preparation for 2024. Swiatek’s natural affinity for clay, combined with her previous success at the French Open, makes her the favorite to dominate the tournament once again and secure her fourth Suzanne-Lenglen cup.
Wimbledon Prediction:
Date: July 1-14, 2024
Location: London
Defending Champions: Carlos Alcaraz and Marketa Vondrousova
Men’s Winner: Novak Djokovic
Despite his surprising loss to Alcaraz in the 2023 Wimbledon final, Djokovic has a deep connection and strong desire to excel at the prestigious grass-court tournament. The Serbian superstar has made it clear that he won’t let the opportunity slip away again, especially considering his acknowledgment that every major final could be his last. With his unparalleled determination, Djokovic will be poised for redemption and a record-breaking eighth Wimbledon title.
Women’s Winner: Ons Jabeur
After back-to-back finals losses at Wimbledon in 2022 and 2023, Jabeur has demonstrated her hunger for success at the All England Club. While the pressure might be overwhelming in 2024, Jabeur’s fan-favorite status, combined with her exceptional skills and determination, will propel her to find another gear and achieve her major breakthrough. The Tunisian star will finally lift the Wimbledon trophy, fulfilling her long-cherished dream.
US Open Prediction:
Date: August 26-September 8, 2024
Location: New York
Defending Champions: Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff
Men’s Winner: Ben Shelton
This prediction is driven by recency bias, but after witnessing Shelton’s heroic run to the semifinals at the 2023 US Open, it’s reasonable to consider him as a candidate to end the American men’s major title drought. Shelton, a 20-year-old former NCAA champion, showcased his electric playstyle and ability to challenge top players like Djokovic. Building on his momentum, Shelton will be rewarded in front of a passionate home crowd at the final major of the year.
Women’s Winner: Aryna Sabalenka
Despite falling short at the 2023 US Open, Sabalenka’s exceptional performance throughout the season solidifies her place as a threat on every surface. Being the first woman to reach the semifinals in all four majors in a single season since Serena Williams in 2016 showcases her consistency and all-around ability. With her tenacity and determination, it’s difficult to imagine Sabalenka not winning multiple titles in 2024, potentially avenging her loss in New York.
While these predictions are based on the current knowledge and performances of the players, it’s important to remember that tennis is a highly unpredictable sport. Any number of factors, such as injuries, form, and new emerging talents, can significantly impact the outcome of future tournaments. Only time will reveal the true champions of the 2024 major season.
