Coco Gauff dropped to the floor and let out a huge scream in an emotional celebration after defeating Qinwen Zheng in the WTA Finals. The American came out on top after a thrilling three-setter in which both players were tested to their physical limits.
Gauff came from a set down, losing the opener 6-3 in a disappointing start. But the exciting 20-year-old took control of the second set, breaking her opponent before taking it 6-4.
An epic deciding set went to a tiebreaker in which Gauff excelled, winning it 7-2. After sealing match point with a burst of speed and a strong forehand, the 2023 US Open champion dropped to the floor. and covered her face with her hands. It was clearly a victory that meant a lot.
Gauff soon rose to her feet, shook hands with Zheng and the umpire before returning to the court to toast her victory with the crowd. Visibly emotional, she let out a lengthy ferocious scream and shouted: « Come on! »
This was an outstanding conclusion to the WTA Finals between two of the tour’s best players. Gauff’s form has improved immeasurably since she endured a difficult summer and exited the US Open in the fourth round. Zheng, meanwhile, became the first Chinese player – man or woman – to win 50 matches in a single season.
“I’m tired first and foremost,” Gauff told Sky Sports afterwards.
“Happy the season is over. It was a great match. Qinwen played really great tennis. I was trying my best to hang in there and never gave up.
“No [I never believed that I wouldn’t win]. Sometimes you think that a little bit, but you push that thought away. I was telling myself, ‘Another point, another chance’. I’ve been in situations like this in the past and been able to turn it around, so I knew that I could do it again today.”
Zheng was unfortunate to end up on the losing side. She said in her on-court interview: “I want to say thanks to everyone who came tonight. It was a long week. Thanks to all the staff. Thanks to my team because you guys try to keep me healthy.
« I’ve been through a lot of matches this year, but I’m still on court fighting. Thanks to you. I wouldn’t be here without you. Congrats to the champion. It’s your first title here. I wish you have a great future.”
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