Coco Gauff has made history at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, becoming the youngest champion of the prestigious season-ending tournament in two decades.
The American tennis star clinched a dramatic victory against Qinwen Zheng in Sunday’s final, marking her as the first US champion since Serena Williams’ triumph ten years ago.
The 20-year-old’s remarkable achievement adds to her growing list of accolades in 2023, following her US Open victory earlier this year.
In a thrilling contest that showcased the highest level of women’s tennis, Gauff emerged victorious with a score of 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7-2).
The match was a nail-biting affair, with Gauff coming perilously close to defeat before mounting a remarkable comeback.
After dropping the first set, the American teenager showed tremendous resilience to level the match in the second.
Coco Gauff came from behind to land victory in the ATP Finals
Sky Sports
The decisive third set went down to the wire, with Gauff finding herself just two points from defeat before rallying to secure a stunning victory in the tiebreak.
Gauff’s path to the final was marked by impressive victories over some of the sport’s biggest names.
The American demonstrated exceptional form by defeating defending champion Iga Swiatek en route to the championship match.
She followed this up with a notable upset victory over an out-of-sorts Aryna Sabalenka, showcasing some of the best tennis of her career.
These victories highlighted Gauff’s remarkable turnaround in form, particularly notable after she had previously struggled during the North American hard-court swing.
Coco Gauff released a scream after clinching victory
Sky Sports
This historic victory in Riyadh marks Gauff as the youngest champion at the WTA Finals since Maria Sharapova’s triumph in 2004.
At just 20 years old, Gauff’s achievement places her in elite company among tennis’s most accomplished young talents.
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Coco Gauff had to battle it out for three hours in Riyadh
Sky Sports
The victory carries particular significance as it makes her the first American to claim the season-ending championship since Serena Williams accomplished the feat a decade ago.
This milestone adds another remarkable chapter to Gauff’s breakthrough 2023 season, cementing her status as one of tennis’s brightest rising stars.