American tennis star Coco Gauff clinched her first Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Finals title with a dramatic comeback victory over China’s Zheng Qinwen in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday. The 20-year-old overcame a set deficit to triumph 3-6, 6-4, 7-6(2), marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
Gauff became the first American champion since Serena Williams achieved the feat a decade ago and the youngest winner of the tournament since Russia’s Maria Sharapova claimed the title in 2004.
Zheng, 22, delivered an impressive performance in her first WTA Finals appearance, matching Li Na for the best result achieved by any player from the Chinese mainland at the season-ending event. Despite finishing as the runner-up, Zheng secured her position as world No. 5, highlighting her rapid ascent in the world of women’s tennis.
The match showcased the exceptional talents of both athletes. After the first set was tied at 3-3, Zheng seized momentum by winning five consecutive games, taking the set 6-3 and establishing a 2-0 lead in the second. Gauff, demonstrating resilience, rallied to win four games in a row, eventually claiming the second set 6-4.
The final set was a nail-biting affair, with both players exchanging powerful shots and strategic plays. Zheng broke Gauff in the ninth game, but Gauff responded by breaking back in the tenth, pushing the match into a decisive tiebreak. Gauff dominated the tiebreak 7-2, sealing her victory and lifting the prestigious trophy.
"It’s an incredible feeling to win this title," Gauff said after the match. "Zheng played exceptionally well, and it was a tough battle from start to finish."
Zheng reflected on her performance, stating, "Reaching the final in my first WTA Finals is a huge achievement. I will learn from this experience and continue to work hard."
The match in Riyadh not only highlighted the rising stars of women’s tennis but also underscored the global nature of the sport, with fans worldwide tuning in to witness this thrilling encounter.
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Coco Gauff edges Zheng Qinwen to win her first WTA Finals title
cgtn.com
