Gauff Triumphs Over Pegula to Secure Wuhan Open Title

Coco Gauff emerged victorious against fellow American Jessica Pegula, winning the Wuhan Open with a score of 6-4, 7-5 on October 12, 2025. The match, held in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, marked Gauff’s third WTA 1000 title and came without dropping a single set throughout the tournament.

Stubborn Decision Pays Off

After a challenging performance at the US Open, the 21-year-old Gauff described her decision to compete in China as “stubborn,” reflecting on her choice to defy her coach, Jean-Christophe Faurel. “He originally didn’t want me to come because I had a tough US Open, but I had to prove him wrong,” she stated, acknowledging her determination to succeed despite her coach’s reservations.

Gauff’s journey in Wuhan included a remarkable performance where she did not drop a set, culminating in a 1 hour and 42 minute final against Pegula. With this win, she became the first player in the Open Era to win her first nine hard-court finals.

“It was a great Asian swing,” Gauff noted, having reached the semi-finals in Beijing the previous week before claiming victory in Wuhan.

Dynamic Match and Strong Rivalry

The final showcased a thrilling dynamic between the two former doubles partners. Gauff started strong, quickly taking a 3-0 lead in the opening set. Pegula, however, demonstrated her resilience by leveling the score at 4-4, capitalizing on a fierce backhand winner to break Gauff’s serve.

Despite Pegula’s efforts, Gauff seized a crucial opportunity two games later to break back and secure the first set in 47 minutes. The match continued to be a test of endurance, with Gauff and Pegula exchanging breaks in a gripping second set. Gauff’s ability to maintain focus, even after a series of double faults, ultimately led her to triumph.

With the score tied at 5-5, Gauff went on a remarkable run, winning 10 consecutive points. She sealed the match with a decisive volley from Pegula that sailed wide, raising her arms in celebration as she claimed the title.

In a show of sportsmanship, Pegula expressed her admiration for Gauff. “It’s an honour to play you, as a friend and fellow American in the final. It’s our first final, so that was a lot of fun,” she remarked. Pegula also acknowledged her fitness trainer, John Opfer, for helping her endure the demanding conditions of the Asian swing, which included a semi-final run in Beijing and a runner-up finish in Wuhan.

Gauff’s victory not only highlights her growing status in women’s tennis but also sets the stage for future encounters between the two athletes, who have developed a strong rapport both on and off the court. As the season progresses, fans can anticipate further thrilling matches from Gauff, who continues to make her mark in the sport.