WTA Tokyo (Premier 5):
Draw
OOP

So the Tokyo draw has been released and, unsurprisingly, it is without the four most accomplished players of this generation. The draw is led by Karolina and Zvonareva, and there is only one Grand Slam Champion in the tournament. Yes, that would be Francesca. This is probably similar to what the tour will look like when the “big four” do hang up their rackets for good, so get used to it, people.

This week’s Tokyo event carries a special importance, however. Not only will the first Doha berths be decided this week, but with Serena officially out of both Tokyo and Beijing, a new (or old, in the case of Venus) number one being crowned is suddenly the most likely outcome over the next month. The main contenders are Caroline Wozniacki, Venus Williams, Vera Zvonareva and of course Kim Clijsters has an outside chance too. With Venus and Kim continuing to play as few events as possible (Venus has played 9 and Kim, 11), all eyes will be on Karolina and Vera this week. Who will finish the year as World Number One?

As it has been with the WTA for most of the year, this race to (slamless) number one will undoubtedly be intruiging and interesting to follow, but at the same time it will be met with skepticism and criticism. Unlike previous years, this whole debacle is purely down to bad luck and Serena being injured for 3/4 of the season. But there is always a silver lining. A new slamless number one would open up the possibility to more of this, and that can only be a good thing.