Coco Gauff won the U.S. Open women’s final, becoming the latest Black American woman to leave a history-making mark on the most sacred grounds of U.S. tennis.
Gauff bested Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus on Saturday in three sets (2-6, 6-3, 6-2).
"I just pray that I have the strength to give it my all, and whatever happens happens," Gauff told the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium after the match, explaining her prayers and her mental state. "I just knew if I didn’t give it my all, I had no shot at winning."
The champ congratulated Sabalenka for rising to No. 1 in the world with her presence in the final.
The 19-year-old unusual mettle after finding herself down a set to a player who is technically the world's best. Commentator Cliff Drysdale said it looked at that point like Sabalenka was “going to roll over her.”
It never happened.
The teenager held fast at the baseline and kept her serves mellow but accurate, and chased everything down. Her lie-in-wait strategy worked, as an inside-out forehand from Sabalenka in the second set sailed long and wide up the line and Gauff tied the match one set each.
The third and decisive set went by fast, and Gauff sealed it when Sabalenka came to the net down 2 games to 5, with her forehand volley ready, but with Gauff's squeezing off a passing shot that screamed past and landed in.
"Coco lifted her game to a higher level than we’ve ever seen," commentator Chris Evert said.
As a seasoned tennis expert and enthusiast with an in-depth understanding of the sport, it's evident that Coco Gauff's recent victory at the U.S. Open women's final is a historic moment in the world of tennis. Gauff's remarkable performance showcased her prowess on the court, especially during the intense three-set match against Aryna Sabalenka.
Gauff's mental strength and strategic gameplay were crucial factors in her success. In her post-match remarks at Arthur Ashe Stadium, she emphasized the importance of giving her all and staying focused, demonstrating a deep understanding of the mental aspects of tennis. Her resilience was particularly evident when facing a one-set deficit against Sabalenka, who is recognized as one of the world's best players.
During the match, Gauff's tactical approach was notable. She maintained a strong defensive position at the baseline, utilizing accurate serves and showcasing exceptional agility to chase down every ball. This approach proved effective, as she managed to turn the tide in her favor, ultimately tying the match at one set each with a well-executed inside-out forehand that forced an error from Sabalenka.
The third set witnessed Gauff's exceptional performance reaching new heights. Facing a 2-5 deficit, she displayed composure and skill by delivering a passing shot that secured her victory when Sabalenka approached the net with a forehand volley. Commentators, including Cliff Drysdale and Chris Evert, recognized the teenager's extraordinary mettle and her ability to elevate her game when it mattered most.
This victory not only marked Gauff's personal triumph but also contributed to the legacy of Black American women in tennis, adding her name to the list of those who have made history on the sacred grounds of U.S. tennis. Gauff's ability to rise to the occasion against a technically superior opponent reflects not only her individual skill but also her determination and strategic acumen on the tennis court.
