Victoria Mboko’s rapid rise on the WTA Tour has continued into 2026, with the Canadian teenager emerging as one of the season’s most promising young talents following her debut victory at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open.
The 19-year-old began her Doha campaign with an impressive first-round win, adding to a growing list of strong performances that have lifted her into the world’s top ranks. After notable victories in Montréal and Hong Kong last year, Mboko has shown she is increasingly comfortable competing on the sport’s biggest stages.
Her progress has already brought her into contact with elite opposition. At last month’s Australian Open, she faced world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, gaining valuable experience against one of the game’s leading players. Matches like that have played a key role in her development as she continues to test herself against top-level competition.
Source: WTA Tour
Mboko has been open about her long-term ambitions, including her desire to face her childhood idol, Serena Williams. Although the 23-time Grand Slam champion retired in 2022, recent reports indicate that Williams has re-entered the World Anti-Doping Agency testing pool, a necessary step for any potential return to professional tennis.
While no official comeback has been confirmed, the move has renewed speculation that Williams could return later this year. Mboko acknowledged that playing against the former world No. 1 remains a personal dream, saying that competing against the best players in the world is an important part of her growth.
For now, the Canadian is focused on making the most of her opportunities on tour. In Doha, she is gaining further exposure at the highest level by competing in both singles and doubles. She has partnered Coco Gauff in the doubles draw and is set to face former world No. 2 Vera Zvonareva in the second round of the singles.
These matches provide Mboko with valuable experience against established players as she continues to build consistency and confidence.
With her strong early-season form and increasing presence in major tournaments, Mboko is positioning herself for a breakthrough year. Whether or not a meeting with Williams materialises, her performances in 2026 suggest she is steadily moving closer to the elite level she hopes to reach.
