Photo: JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP / Getty Images
Coco Gauff made history on Saturday (June 7) by winning the French Open women's championship at Roland Garros, marking the first time in a decade that an American woman has claimed the title. The 21-year-old, who was seeded second, defeated top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling three-set match, 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4. This victory adds to Gauff's Grand Slam achievements, following her 2023 U.S. Open win.
The match was a display of resilience and skill from Gauff, who rallied after losing the first set in a tiebreak. She adjusted her strategy to counter Sabalenka's powerful game, ultimately capitalizing on her opponent's 70 unforced errors. Gauff's defensive prowess and ability to maintain composure under pressure were key factors in her comeback. "It really came down to the last few points, but overall I'm just really happy with the fight that I managed today," Gauff said during her post-match press conference, as reported by WTA Tennis.
The win not only cements Gauff's status as a rising star in tennis but also elevates her to World No. 2 in the PIF WTA Rankings. She expressed her joy and disbelief after the match, quoting rapper Tyler, the Creator, to convey her determination and self-belief. Gauff's victory was celebrated by notable figures, including former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, who congratulated her on social media, according to ESPN.
Gauff's triumph at Roland Garros is a testament to her growth and perseverance since her first Grand Slam final in 2022, where she was defeated by Iga Swiatek. This time, Gauff showcased her ability to adapt and overcome challenges, proving herself as a formidable competitor on the clay courts of Paris. Her father, Corey Gauff, highlighted the family's fighting spirit, saying, "They're bringing the tiger, so we're going to have to bring the lion," as reported by The Washington Post.