Top 5 Women's Singles Players with Most Canadian Open Titles in Open Era

American women have long dominated hard-court tennis, and the Canadian Open is no exception. Three of the tournament’s top five all-time title holders are from the U.S., highlighting the country’s consistent ability to produce world-class talent. 

Jessica Pegula, a two-time champion, will be aiming for a historic three-peat in 2025 — a win that would put her alongside Serena Williams and Simona Halep as three-time winners of the event. Interestingly, despite being the home tournament, only two Canadians have ever claimed the title: Faye Urban back in 1969 and Bianca Andreescu in 2019.

In this article, let’s look at the top five women’s singles players with most Canadian Open titles in the open era.

5. Simona Halep – 3 (2016, 2018, 2022)

Simona Halep's three Canadian Open titles highlight her remarkable resilience and consistency over the years—and across cities. She captured the trophy twice in Montreal (2016, 2018) and once in Toronto (2022), firmly establishing herself as one of the tournament’s most successful modern champions.

After falling short in her first final in 2015 against Belinda Bencic, Halep bounced back just a year later, defeating Madison Keys in a display of mental toughness. She went on to beat top players like Sloane Stephens and Beatriz Haddad Maia in later finals, completing a memorable trio of victories that reflect both her determination and enduring class.

4. Serena Williams – 3 (2001, 2011, 2013)

Any list of the most decorated female tennis players is incomplete without Serena Williams. The American legend brought her trademark power and mental toughness to the Canadian Open, capturing her first title there early in her career in 2001.

Her journey at the tournament began in dramatic fashion in 2000, when she reached the final but was forced to retire due to injury after taking the first set against Martina Hingis. She came back stronger the following year, defeating Jennifer Capriati to claim her first Canadian Open title.

Serena returned to the winner’s circle again in 2011 and 2013, showing her continued dominance well into her veteran years. Those titles included impressive wins over Samantha Stosur in 2011 and Sorana Cirstea in 2013, adding to her legacy at the event.

3. Martina Navratilova – 3 (1983, 1984, 1986)

Martina Navratilova captured the Canadian Open singles title three times during the Open Era, with each win marked by memorable battles against top-tier opponents.

In 1983, she edged out long-time rival Chris Evert in a hard-fought final, winning 6–4, 4–6, 6–1. The match highlighted Navratilova’s trademark serve-and-volley game and her ability to raise her level under pressure.

She faced Evert again in the 1984 final and once more came out on top, reinforcing her dominance in one of tennis’s most iconic rivalries.

Navratilova claimed her third Canadian Open crown in 1986, defeating rising star Helena Suková. The victory was a testament to her experience and adaptability, as she outplayed the younger challenger with smart, strategic tennis.

2. Monica Seles – 4 (1995, 1996, 1997, 1998)

Monica Seles’ dominant run at the Canadian Open from 1995 to 1998 remains one of the most impressive streaks in the tournament’s history. Winning four titles in a row—across both Toronto and Montreal—she defeated top players like Amanda Coetzer, Arantxa Sánchez Vicario, and Anke Huber in her finals appearances.

Seles also reached the final in 1992 and 1999, cementing her reputation as a consistent force at the event. Her relentless aggression from the baseline and fearless attacking style made her a near-unstoppable presence on North American hard courts during the mid-to-late '90s.

1. Chris Evert – 4 (1974, 1980, 1984, 1985)

Chris Evert dominated the Canadian Open across more than a decade, winning four titles on both clay and hard courts—a rare achievement as the tournament changed surfaces over the years.

Her victories came against a wide range of opponents, including Julie Heldman, Virginia Ruzici, Alycia Moulton, and Claudia Kohde-Kilsch. Evert also finished as runner-up in 1981 and 1983, a testament to her incredible consistency and staying power at the top of the game.

Cover Credits - WTA