Coco Gauff has made a significant step towards ensuring her advancement in the WTA Finals, triumphing over Jasmine Paolini with a commanding score of 6-3, 6-2 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The reigning champion demonstrated marked improvement in her performance, particularly in her serving, where she recorded just three double faults—an impressive drop from the staggering 17 she committed in her debut match against Jessica Pegula, which ended in a three-set defeat.
Reflecting on her turnaround, Gauff expressed confidence saying, “Definitely a turnaround from my first match. It’s the beauty of this tournament and to have another chance to prove yourself.” This win revitalizes Gauff’s hopes as she prepares for her next challenge against Aryna Sabalenka, the current world number one, which will ultimately determine if she progresses further in the prestigious event that features the top eight players of the season.
In the context of the tournament, Sabalenka currently leads the group after a hard-fought victory against Pegula, with scores of 6-4, 2-6, 6-3. Unfortunately for Paolini, this latest loss means she has been eliminated from the competition, having suffered two defeats in her matches.
Despite the disappointment of her singles performance, Paolini continues to compete in the doubles event alongside her partner, Sara Errani. Gauff noted the challenges of juggling both formats, commenting, “I don’t think Jasmine was 100% today. Playing singles and doubles is not easy.” As the tournament unfolds, Gauff’s upcoming clash with Sabalenka promises to be a critical matchup as the stakes rise in this climactic season finale.
