Coco Gauff wins first French Open title against Sabalenka

In a career-defining moment, American tennis sensation Coco Gauff claimed her first French Open singles title, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping three-set final at Roland Garros.

Gauff, seeded second, rallied from a set down to secure a 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4 victory, showcasing remarkable composure and tactical maturity in swirling windy conditions that challenged both players throughout the contest.

The 21-year-old had previously reached the French Open final in 2022, falling short, but this time she held her nerve on the clay, adding a second Grand Slam title to her growing resume following her 2023 US Open triumph also over Sabalenka.

The match was marked by 12 service breaks in the first two sets as both players battled momentum swings and unforced errors. After a slow start, Gauff turned the tide in the second set, capitalizing on Sabalenka’s dip in form to dominate.

In the final set, Gauff broke early and held firm, even fending off a crucial break point in the last game before sealing the win on her second match point when Sabalenka’s forehand went long. Overcome with emotion, Gauff collapsed onto the clay before sharing a warm embrace with her opponent and celebrating with her proud parents, Candi and Corey Gauff, in the stands.

Gauff’s victory cements her place among the elite in women’s tennis, combining raw athleticism with improved mental resilience and court strategy.

While it’s a setback for 27-year-old Sabalenka, her rivalry with Gauff is fast becoming one of the sport’s most compelling.