Coco Gauff claimed her third WTA 1000 title with a decisive 6-4, 7-5 victory over compatriot Jessica Pegula at the Wuhan Open on Sunday, cementing her status as one of tennis' rising stars. The 21-year-old dominated the all-American final in the central Chinese city, extending her flawless record in hard-court finals to nine consecutive wins.
Gauff, seeded third, showcased resilience despite a mid-match challenge from Pegula. After racing to a 3-0 lead in the first set, she weathered a comeback attempt by the sixth seed, who leveled at 4-4. Gauff regained momentum with a critical break in the ninth game to seal the set. Pegula, fresh from a grueling three-set semifinal against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, fought valiantly in the second set, building a 3-0 advantage. However, Gauff's tactical adjustments and improved serve mechanics—developed with biomechanics specialist Gavin MacMillan—proved pivotal as she clawed back to secure the title in 1 hour and 42 minutes.
The win marks Gauff's second title of 2023 and reinforces her growing influence in women's tennis. For Pegula, the runner-up finish highlights her consistency in reaching late-stage tournaments, having battled through three-set matches in all prior rounds.
