Coco Gauff Wins Second Straight Auckland, Starts Hot With Win Over Svitolina
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After a torrid last half of 2023, Coco Gauff has started this season as good as possible with her first career title defense taking Auckland 6-7(4), 6-3, 6-3 over Elina Svitolina.
Gauff had chances to close out the first but dominated in the second and got a late break in the third to take the match.
“I don’t know if I was expecting this result, but I’m really happy with how I managed to play today,” Gauff told the WTA. “I think today level-wise was definitely not my best match or best level this week, but sometimes when you win when you’re not playing your best, it makes you feel more satisfied.”
The 19-year-old is now 7-1 in WTA finals and she wins her fourth title since adding Brad Gilbert to her coaching crew last summer.
“It was not my best level of play but sometimes when you are not at your best and you win, it makes you more satisfied,” said Gauff.
“It gives me a lot of confidence beating Elina. It was cool seeing how I handled the pressure especially after losing the first set. I was proud of the mental fight I showed today.”
Gauff dropped just one set and has now won 10 straight matches in Auckland. Gauff will go into the Australian Open as a four seed and among the favorites.
“This gives me a lot of confidence looking towards Melbourne,” Gauff said. “After winning a Slam it is important to be able to reach up again. Being the No. 1 seed, everyone expects you to win which is something I had to adjust to mentally.
“It was great playing in the sunshine and I think the fans enjoyed it too. Women’s tennis is thriving and it can only go upwards. From the first day to the last, the crowds came and I hope that continues.”
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