Coco Gauff has made history by becoming the first American to reach the finals of the Rome tournament since 2016. She achieved this remarkable feat by defeating Zheng Qinwen in a thrilling match that went to a final-set tiebreak at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. Gauff’s determination was evident as she looks to claim the title, something no American has done since Serena Williams.
Gauff’s Journey to the Finals
In their previous encounter, Gauff and Zheng played for over three hours in the finals of the 2024 WTA Finalist in Riyadh, where Gauff also won after a tense tiebreak. When they faced off again in Rome, it turned into another marathon clash. Gauff, the No. 4 seed, edged out No. 8 seed Zheng with a score of 7-6(3), 4-6, 7-6(4), marking her first final appearance in Rome and breaking a nine-year drought for American players in the finals of this prestigious event.
Now, Gauff is set to compete against the home favorite, top-ranked Italian Jasmine Paolini, in the final. She aims to become the first American to win the singles title at this WTA 1000 event since Serena Williams triumphed over Madison Keys in an all-American final.
Although Gauff had previously struggled in the semifinals in Rome, this time she persevered despite being pushed to the limit, nearly facing defeat after being a set ahead. Zheng, who was on the verge of making history for Chinese tennis, fought back fiercely, but Gauff held her ground.
The match was a test of stamina and skill, lasting over three hours and featuring numerous ups and downs, including a tense tiebreak where Gauff’s resilience ultimately shone through. She managed to secure her 17th career win in Rome, and only at Roland Garros does she have more victories.
As the final approaches, the anticipation builds for Gauff’s performance against Paolini. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if she can continue her historic run and bring home the title for American tennis. Stay tuned for more updates!