Aryna Sabalenka Gains Sweet ‘Revenge’ Over Coco Gauff to Storm Into WTA Finals Semifinal
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showcased her dominance and determination at the 2025 WTA Finals with a commanding straight-sets victory over American star Coco Gauff, avenging her earlier defeat at Roland Garros. In what was one of the most anticipated clashes of the group stage, Sabalenka delivered a composed and ruthless performance to triumph 7-6(5), 6-2, booking her spot in the semifinals.
The match, staged under the bright lights of the WTA Finals, carried a storyline rich with rivalry and redemption. Having met twice this season in tournament finals—splitting their battles on clay—both players entered the contest eager to make a statement. For Sabalenka, it was about sealing her place in the knockout round and gaining revenge after her heartbreaking French Open loss to Gauff earlier in the year. For the 21-year-old American, it was a chance to reaffirm her place among the elite and defend her Finals crown.
From the outset, both players tested each other’s strengths. The first set was a rollercoaster of powerful groundstrokes and intense rallies. Gauff began confidently, breaking Sabalenka early and holding a 5-4, 30/0 lead while serving for the set. But Sabalenka, known for her resilience and fierce baseline game, clawed her way back with remarkable aggression and focus. She forced a tiebreak and, maintaining her composure under pressure, edged it 7-5. That turnaround proved to be the defining moment of the encounter, shifting the momentum firmly in her favor.
The second set saw a completely different narrative unfold. Gauff appeared to struggle with consistency, particularly on her serve—a recurring issue that has plagued her in recent matches. She managed two aces but was undone by six double faults, while her first-serve points won dropped to 54%. Although she broke Sabalenka’s serve three times out of six chances, the American couldn’t capitalize on key moments. Meanwhile, Sabalenka’s game only grew stronger. She fired three aces, committed just one double fault, and broke Gauff in five of six opportunities, sealing the victory in just under two hours.
When asked during her on-court interview how she managed to turn the match around from being on the verge of losing the first set, Sabalenka smiled and admitted even she wasn’t sure. “If I would know, probably I wouldn’t put myself in that situation,” she said lightheartedly. “I was just trying to stay aggressive, find my rhythm, find my game. I felt like I was already working for the second set, and somehow everything clicked. I’m super happy with the performance and super happy to get this win in straight sets. It feels great to make it through the round robin.”
Speaking later to Sky Sports, Sabalenka revealed that revenge had indeed been a motivating factor. “Going into this match, I wasn’t thinking about how to just get through it—I wanted the win,” she said. “It didn’t matter what was happening in our group. I just focused on my tennis and tried to get revenge after Roland Garros. That was my goal, and I’m happy I did it.”
With the win, Sabalenka advanced to the semifinals, where she will face another familiar foe—Amanda Anisimova—in what promises to be a thrilling rematch of their U.S. Open final earlier this season. “She always makes me work really hard,” Sabalenka noted. “We’ve had great battles, and I always enjoy facing her. It’s going to be a tough fight, but that’s what I love about tennis—these challenges. I hope we’ll deliver a great match for the fans.”
The Belarusian’s victory underscores what has been a stellar season for her. Sabalenka now boasts a record of 62 wins and 11 losses, along with four singles titles, reaffirming her status as the top player on the women’s tour. Her consistency and mental toughness have been key to maintaining her No. 1 ranking throughout the year.
For Coco Gauff, however, the loss brings an end to her WTA Finals title defense and a year that was marked by both triumphs and lessons. Despite falling short in Cancun, the young American can still look back proudly on her 2025 campaign, finishing the season ranked World No. 3 with a 48-16 record and two singles titles. Gauff’s continued growth and maturity on the court hint that her time at the top is far from over.
As the WTA Finals continue through November 8, Sabalenka remains focused on one goal—lifting the championship trophy. With confidence, momentum, and revenge already achieved, the Belarusian powerhouse looks every bit the favorite to finish her season as she started it: at the very top.
