ROME — Elina Svitolina triumphed at the Italian Open on Saturday, securing her third title in Rome by defeating Coco Gauff, who found herself in the finals for the second consecutive year.
After an intense battle lasting nearly three hours, Svitolina claimed victory with a score of 6-4, 6-7 (3), 6-2, marking her first WTA 1000 title since her win in Rome back in 2018. She also celebrated victory here in 2017.
“It’s honestly hard to grasp that it’s been eight years since I first held this trophy,” Svitolina expressed joyfully on the court after earning her 20th career title. “I’m thrilled about the last two weeks.”
“I mentioned to my coach that I would love to reach a round number before I retire. He assured me that we would aim for that this year. So, I couldn’t be happier!”
Gauff, eager to become the first American winner in Rome since 2016, had faced defeat against Jasmine Paolini in last year’s final but went on to clinch the French Open title.
“These past two weeks have been wonderful … I definitely feel energized heading into the French Open,” she noted. “I’ve learned a lot from this match.”
Gauff made a strong start, breaking Svitolina’s serve and holding to love. She even had the chance to extend her lead to 5-2, but Svitolina fought off three break points and rallied to take the set.
Despite struggling with her serve throughout the crucial second set, the third-ranked Gauff managed to push it to a tiebreak, successfully leveling the match.
However, Svitolina took control in the decisive set, breaking Gauff’s serve twice, leading her to serve for the title. The seventh-ranked Svitolina wrapped up the match on her third match point, finishing with a volley at the net.
