Gauff and Paolini Face Off Again at WTA Finals as Sabalenka Meets Pegula
Defending champion Coco Gauff and Italy’s Jasmine Paolini went head-to-head in today’s group-stage match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, with Gauff taking the first set 6-3. The result puts pressure on Paolini, who must win to keep her semi-final hopes alive.
Gauff broke early, riding a strong serve—winning all seven points on her second serve during the opening games—and quickly gained control. Paolini fought back briefly, but Gauff’s pace, positioning and serve tipped the balance.
In a separate match later today, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is set to face American Jessica Pegula, after both players secured wins earlier in the tournament. Sabalenka holds an edge in their head-to-head, but Pegula captured a recent upset win in Wuhan, adding intrigue to the contest.
Back to Gauff’s match: Despite some rough patches—including a couple of double faults—her improved second serve success (reported at 82%-win rate on second serve points in the opening set) underlined the progress she has made this year.
For Paolini, the stakes are high: a straight-sets loss would eliminate her from the competition. Meanwhile, Gauff is now in prime position to challenge for a semi-final berth, provided she maintains her composure and momentum.
