By Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | Sunday, January 5, 2025
Photo credit: Andy Cheung/Getty
Coco Gauff has elevated her game to extraordinary levels in Australia.
Seamlessly transitioning from defense to aggressive play, Gauff bested the Roland Garros champion, Iga Swiatek, with a score of 6-4, 6-4, securing a 1-0 advantage for Team USA against Poland in the United Cup Final in Sydney. Taylor Fritz fought valiantly against Hubert Hurkacz, clinching a challenging 6-4, 5-7, 6-4 victory to ensure Team USA’s 2-0 victory and their second United Cup title in three years.
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“I truly believe this is one of my finest performances, especially in today’s match, which showcased high-level tennis,” Gauff shared with the press in Sydney. “Both of us played exceptionally well.”
Continuing her upward trajectory from late 2024, Gauff earned the United Cup MVP title, remaining undefeated throughout the tournament.
This marks Gauff’s second consecutive victory over Swiatek, following her earlier 6-3, 6-4 triumph in the WTA Finals last November.
In Riyadh, Gauff dispatched notable players like US Open finalist Jessica Pegula, as well as top-ranked Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen in successive matches.
Previously, Swiatek targeted Gauff’s forehand relentlessly, exploiting it until it faltered. This strategy helped Swiatek to claim victory in 11 of their first 13 encounters, including a striking 6-1, 6-3 win in the 2022 Roland Garros final.
With guidance from coach Matt Daly, Gauff has refined her extreme western grip and is now adept at adjusting her lengthy takeback on powerful shots. She not only stood her ground in forehand exchanges but also executed sharp forehand down-the-line shots, a tactic she seldom employed against Swiatek in the past.
Does this win at the United Cup signify a pivotal change in a rivalry that once seemed overwhelmingly one-sided, akin to the matchup between Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova?
Has Gauff indeed cracked the code to outplay Swiatek, a challenge that had haunted her for years?
Swiatek cautions against premature conclusions.
The world No. 2, who occasionally played with taping on her right thigh during the United Cup, mentioned she wasn’t at peak fitness but acknowledged Gauff’s remarkable level of play.
“I’m definitely glad because I faced some tough opponents this week and also players who challenged me,” Swiatek reflected, having emerged victorious against Katie Boulter, Karolina Muchova, and former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina. “I was able to compete against high-caliber tennis.”
“I couldn’t give it my all today. Coco played outstanding tennis and is certainly progressing. However, I am pleased with my week overall. I sense improvements in my game thanks to my efforts. Nonetheless, I remain focused on the upcoming Australian Open, treating each step with care and continuing my hard work.”
This match produced contrasting interpretations from both players.
World No. 3 Gauff is convinced that if she maintains this vibrant style of play, she can challenge anyone on tour, including the reigning Grand Slam champions above her in the rankings.
“I believe I’m among the best players globally, and on my best days, I’m formidable to beat,” Gauff stated. “Today, I felt I delivered some stellar tennis, and I’m thrilled to have contributed a point for Team USA.”
