In a thrilling display of resilience and skill, American tennis star Coco Gauff captured her maiden French Open singles title, overcoming world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping final that tested both players’ mettle.
The second-seeded Gauff secured a 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4 victory in a match marked by dramatic momentum shifts and challenging conditions on the Roland Garros clay.
The 21-year-old Gauff, who previously won the 2023 US Open against Sabalenka, added a second Grand Slam title to her burgeoning career. The final, played under a stiff breeze that disrupted serves, saw the WTA Tour’s top two players trade 12 service breaks across the first two sets, creating an unpredictable and electrifying contest.
Despite a shaky start where she trailed by a double break in the opening set, Gauff regrouped, capitalizing on Sabalenka’s uncharacteristic errors to level the match in a commanding second set.
The deciding third set showcased Gauff’s growing composure on the sport’s biggest stages. After securing an early break, she maintained her lead despite intense pressure from the 27-year-old Belarusian.
Facing a break point in the final game, Gauff held her nerve, clinching victory on her second match point when Sabalenka’s forehand sailed wide. As the crowd erupted, Gauff collapsed onto the clay in jubilation, later sharing a heartfelt embrace with Sabalenka before racing to celebrate with her parents, Candi and Corey, who were visibly elated in the stands.
This triumph marks a significant milestone for Gauff, who reached the French Open final in 2022 but fell short. Her victory cements her status as a rising force in women’s tennis, blending athleticism, mental fortitude, and tactical prowess.
For Sabalenka, the loss is a setback, but her competitive spirit promises more battles with Gauff in the future.