
8.11.2024
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WTA Finals
Coco Gauff Triumphs Over Sabalenka to Reach WTA Finals in Riyadh
Coco Gauff continues her stellar season, reaching her first WTA Finals after a solid win over world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, 7-6(4), 6-3. This victory came after Gauff’s powerful showing earlier in the tournament, where she defeated other top contenders, including Iga Swiatek. Despite a loss to Barbora Krejcikova in the round-robin stage, Gauff maintained her momentum to defeat the top-seeded Sabalenka in 109 minutes on Center Court.
Gauff’s Winning Strategy
The American player’s recent improvements—especially her serve—were evident throughout the match. This upgrade in her game followed her decision to part ways with coach Brad Gilbert, bringing Matt Daly on board, with a focus on reducing double faults and maximizing her agility on the court. Gauff’s reduced errors and increased serve consistency have been crucial in her recent matches.
Sabalenka’s Roller-Coaster Performance
Sabalenka entered the WTA Finals with a strong season and the No. 1 ranking, clinching back-to-back titles at Cincinnati and the US Open. However, her performance in Riyadh began to waver after she lost to Elena Rybakina, and she struggled to find her rhythm against Gauff. Although she made efforts to rally in the second set, her frustration led to unforced errors, allowing Gauff to secure the win.
Key Highlights of Gauff's 2023 Season
Gauff’s journey to the WTA Finals caps an impressive year. Some highlights include:
- - First Grand Slam Victory at the US Open, marking her rise as a key contender.
- - WTA 1000 Title at the China Open, signaling her renewed focus and resilience.
- - Wins Over Top Players like Swiatek and Sabalenka, proving her readiness to compete at the highest level.
Next Match: Gauff vs. Zheng
In the final, Gauff will face Zheng Qinwen, the tournament’s No. 7 seed. This is the second meeting between the two players, with Gauff having won their initial clash on clay earlier this year in Rome.
With this momentum, Gauff looks poised for a thrilling showdown as she aims to secure her first WTA Finals title.