The volatility of the format is another thing that makes the WTA Finals unique, and makes the prospect of defending the crown all the more daunting.
Gauff is hoping to become just the fourth woman to win back-to-back year-end titles in the last 25 years.
“I think, A, it’s one of those tournaments you’re not guaranteed a spot in every year,” Gauff explained before the year-end championships began. “Some people win and aren’t able to even qualify. B, the top eight in the world, it’s very hard to I think win this tournament in general, let alone replicate it.”
