Coco Gauff Triumphs Over Aryna Sabalenka to Secure First French Open Title

Coco Gauff achieved a remarkable victory by overcoming Aryna Sabalenka’s aggressive playing style, resulting in an error-laden contest that led to Gauff’s first French Open title. At just 21 years old, she proved her talent and strategic gameplay, making her the youngest American to clinch the women’s singles title at Roland Garros since Serena Williams back in 2002.

Seven years after her success in the junior event on these same clay courts as a 14-year-old, Gauff has elevated her career status to that of a professional champion at the French Open. She had previously secured her first Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open, and this victory marks a significant achievement away from home following a challenging season.

Meanwhile, Sabalenka was aiming to bring her career a step closer to a Grand Slam by winning this tournament to add to her Australian Open and US Open titles. However, the world No. 1 found it difficult to deal with her crafty opponent under the windy conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier. Gauff kept her composure despite a rocky start, ultimately winning the match 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4 after two hours and 38 minutes.

The match was notable as it marked the first time the world’s top two female players faced each other in a Grand Slam final since the 2018 Australian Open, where Caroline Wozniacki triumphed over Simona Halep. This encounter also featured two of the strongest competitors on clay for the season, with both Gauff and Sabalenka recording 17 wins during the European tournament series.

After the match, Sabalenka’s frustration was evident during her press conference, as she alluded to luck being a factor, which bordered on dismissive of Gauff’s performance. She shared plans for a post-match getaway to Greece to relax with tequila and gummy bears.

“It was honestly the worst tennis I’ve played in the last several months,” said the Belarusian player. “The conditions were awful, and she was simply better suited to them than I was. This was the worst final I’ve ever played.”

“At times, it felt like she was hitting from the frame of her racket. Somehow, the ball would land in court, while I was always on the back foot. It felt surreal, like someone was up there laughing and asking if I could manage this,’ she elaborated.

She added, “I couldn’t perform today. I hope that the next time we play under similar conditions, I will be smarter and not rush my game, ensuring that I maintain my focus. I was overly emotional, and I didn’t manage my mental state well today.”

“I’ve booked a flight to Mykonos for some fun and relaxation. I need a few days to completely switch off from this overwhelming experience. It’s been quite a lot to handle,” she concluded.

The match started with Sabalenka taking control, exploiting her powerful game to build a 4-1 lead with a double break. It seemed she would dominate the opening set, especially when she reached 40-0 on her serve.

However, Sabalenka began to make uncharacteristic mistakes, allowing Gauff to equalize at 4-4 after winning three straight games. The swirling winds hampered Sabalenka’s ability to control her shots, while Gauff adapted her footwork effectively.

Despite a brief resurgence where Sabalenka broke to lead 5-4, she squandered two set points and gave Gauff an opportunity to break back. This pattern continued, with numerous breaks throughout the tense first set.

This final marked the first instance of a tiebreak in the opening set of a women’s singles championship match at Roland Garros since 1998. In a tightly contested finish, it was Sabalenka who secured the set after winning crucial points.

Despite taking the first set, Sabalenka’s 32 unforced errors compared to Gauff’s 16 showcased an unsustainable level of play. Gauff quickly rallied in the second set, breaking Sabalenka’s serve early and finding her rhythm.

Feeling more comfortable, Gauff effectively used her skills and variety to consistently pressure Sabalenka, gaining a crucial double break for a 5-2 lead before serving out the set.

The contrast in the players’ demeanor heading into the final set was stark; Gauff exuded calm confidence, while Sabalenka displayed visible frustration toward her team in the stands.

Sabalenka faced difficulties on her serve and dropped her serve early in the final set, only to briefly recover before Gauff reasserted control.

As Gauff served for the match at 5-4, she faced pressure, saving a break point before clinching the victory on her second match point when Sabalenka again faulted.

In a burst of emotion, Gauff collapsed on the clay, overwhelmed by tears of joy after conquering the demanding challenge, marking a significant moment three years after her difficult runner-up finish against Iga Swiatek.

“I was dealing with a lot of personal struggles when I lost here three years ago. I’m appreciative to return and have this experience through it all,” Gauff reflected.