Coco Gauff’s remarkable run at the WTA Finals continued on Friday as she stunned world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinals, 7-6 (4), 6-3. This victory marked a historic achievement for the 18-year-old American, who became the first woman since Elena Rybakina in 2023 to defeat both the top-ranked and second-ranked players at the same tournament.
Gauff’s triumph over Sabalenka came just days after she upset No. 2 Iga Swiatek in the round-robin stage. The American’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level against the world’s best players is a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering determination.
Gauff’s victory over Sabalenka also makes her the youngest woman to defeat the top two players in the WTA rankings at the same tournament since Maria Sharapova at the 2006 US Open. Sharapova, then 19 years old, defeated Amelie Mauresmo and Justine Henin en route to her first Grand Slam title.
Gauff’s success at the WTA Finals is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. She has consistently improved her game and is now one of the most formidable players on the WTA Tour. Her ability to handle the pressure of playing against the world’s best and her unwavering belief in herself make her a force to be reckoned with.
As Gauff continues to rise through the ranks, she is poised to become one of the most dominant players in women’s tennis. Her exceptional talent, combined with her unwavering determination, make her a player to watch for years to come.
