Epic Showdown on Court Philippe-Chatrier
Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka face off for the coveted Suzanne Lenglen trophy on Saturday. Gauff, the 21-year-old American, seeks redemption after her 2022 final loss to Iga Swiatek. Sabalenka, the three-time Grand Slam champion and World No.1, aims to claim her first Roland Garros title against a rival who has improved markedly since their last meeting.
Sabalenka Ends Swiatek’s Claycourt Reign
On Friday, Sabalenka toppled Iga Swiatek, ending the Pole’s 26-match winning streak on Parisian clay. Her powerful serves and aggressive baseline play left Swiatek unable to find answers. By dominating rallies and controlling points early, Sabalenka showcased the form that has carried her to two major titles already this season.
Gauff’s Road to a Second Final
Gauff’s semifinal victory over rising French talent Lois Boisson was clinical. After earlier wins over Jessica Pegula and Mirra Andreeva, she dispatched Boisson in straight sets, limiting her unforced errors to just 15. That marked a significant turnaround from earlier rounds, when Gauff committed 22 unforced errors in the first round, then 23 and 28 in subsequent matches. Her ability to tighten her game late in the tournament has set the stage for this high-stakes rematch.
Davenport’s Bold Prediction
Former World No.1 Lindsay Davenport has backed Sabalenka to lift the trophy. “My initial thought is Sabalenka and how she’s playing,” Davenport said. She cautioned that weather conditions and roof decisions could influence the outcome. Davenport remains skeptical of Gauff’s early tournament form but noted that Gauff’s level has risen sharply in her last three sets, suggesting a more dangerous competitor than she appeared at the outset.
Gauff’s Mature Approach to Pressure
Having experienced a Grand Slam final before, Gauff seems unfazed by the spotlight. She downplayed the stakes at a press conference: “Everyone is dealing with bigger things in life than losing a final,” she said. Recalling her 2022 defeat, she observed that life goes on after a loss. “At first I thought it’d be the end of the world if I lost. The sun still rose the next day,” Gauff explained, signaling her confidence and perspective in her second shot at a Roland Garros title.
Can Gauff Overcome History?
This final represents Gauff’s chance to break through on Paris clay without Swiatek blocking her path. Yet Sabalenka’s momentum and consistent power game present a formidable barrier. If Gauff can maintain her improved shot selection and keep unforced errors in check, she stands a fighting chance. Otherwise, Sabalenka’s blend of aggression and experience may prove decisive.
What to Watch on Saturday
Key battles will include Gauff’s return depth versus Sabalenka’s serve placement, as well as each player’s ability to handle momentum shifts. The crowd’s energy could also favor Gauff, but Sabalenka has shown she can thrive under pressure. Ultimately, the winner will be the one who balances risk with consistency—and handles the unique challenges of a French Open final.
Who do you think will lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen?