Coco Gauff marked a significant milestone in her tennis career on Saturday, September 9, as she secured her first Grand Slam women's singles title at the US Open 2023. Facing off against the soon-to-be World No.1, Aryna Sabalenka, Gauff showcased tenacity and skill in a memorable showdown at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
After a gruelling match spanning two hours and six minutes, Gauff came out victorious with a scoreline of 2-6, 6-3, 6-2.
In doing so, Gauff is now the youngest since Serena Williams to clinch this coveted trophy. In a reminiscent moment from 1999, an 18-year-old Serena vanquished Martina Hingis 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) in the final.
Aryna Sabalenka's strong start
The match's inaugural set saw Sabalenka dominate the court, wrapping up the set in just 40 minutes. Commencing with a service break, Sabalenka exerted immediate pressure on Gauff. The latter managed to break back, levelling the set at 2-2. Yet, Sabalenka's formidable presence was soon felt again, as she secured a double break, advancing to a 5-2 lead.
In a crucial juncture at 2-5, 15-40, Gauff bravely staved off a set point. A subsequent unforced error on her part, however, culminated the set. An interesting facet of this set was the trio of double faults each player conceded. But it was Sabalenka's trio of service breaks that emerged as the game-changer.
Coco Gauff's remarkable comeback
Undeterred by the initial setback, Gauff began the second set holding her serve. Despite facing another break point, she persevered, capitalising on a couple of Sabalenka's unforced errors. As the set progressed, roles reversed, with Gauff securing the initial break and subsequently leading 4-1. For the first instance, Sabalenka seemed on shaky ground.
From that pivotal juncture, Gauff firmly grasped the reins, denying Sabalenka any avenue for a comeback. Wrapping up the second set in 44 minutes, she set the stage for an electrifying decider.
Decisive victory for Gauff
Entering the deciding set on a high, Gauff landed a vital early break courtesy of an impeccable forehand down the line. The American prodigy maintained her upward trajectory, doubling her break lead and surging ahead 3-0.
Though Sabalenka momentarily broke back, her hopes were swiftly dashed as Gauff retaliated, taking the score to 5-2. The conclusion became inevitable. Gauff, with relentless vigour, dethroned the reigning Australian Open champion, asserting her prowess on the global stage.
Coco Gauff clinches her first Grand Slam title at the US Open 2023, delivering a phenomenal performance against Aryna Sabalenka. Dive into the match highlights here.
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