Coco Gauff Wins French Open Title vs. Sabalenka

In a captivating final on Saturday, June 8, 2025, Coco Gauff triumphed over top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka to win her first-ever French Open title. The second-ranked American secured the victory in three hard-fought sets, with a final score of 6-7 (5), 6-2, 6-4. This intense match was filled with tension and dramatic momentum swings, ultimately culminating in Gauff’s second major trophy.

Her previous Grand Slam win was the 2023 US Open, where she also came from a set down to defeat Sabalenka in the final. This highly anticipated contest marked the first No. 1 vs. No. 2 final at Roland Garros since 2013, when Serena Williams faced Maria Sharapova, and only the second such final in the last 30 years.

Match Highlights: A Battle on Clay

The final was a showcase of skill and resilience from both players, featuring key moments that swung the momentum.

Gauff’s Championship Moment

After Sabalenka sent a backhand wide on Gauff’s second championship point, the 21-year-old American fell to the clay court. She covered her face with both hands, before resting her forehead on the red surface in a moment of pure emotion. Following a respectful handshake with Sabalenka at the net, Gauff embraced renowned film director Spike Lee, who was in attendance.

She then celebrated with her entourage, marking a triumphant return to the Roland Garros final, three years after her initial loss there.

Deciding Set Dynamics

Sabalenka began the deciding set with strong intent, maintaining her characteristic high-risk, aggressive approach. She confidently held her first service game. Gauff, however, responded by elevating her own game. In the third game, she won a superb rally that ignited the crowd, drawing loud cheers and applause. This particular exchange included intense drop shots.

Gauff then hit a lob that Sabalenka chased down, attempting a shot between her legs. Gauff skillfully intercepted this at the net, finishing the point with a decisive winner.

Gauff continued to play consistently from the baseline, which put pressure on Sabalenka. She earned a crucial break point. Gauff then converted this opportunity when Sabalenka committed a double-fault, giving her a 2-1 lead in the final set. A visibly frustrated Sabalenka shouted towards her player’s box. Despite this, she quickly regained her composure, breaking back to level the match at 3-3.

However, Gauff once again broke Sabalenka’s serve, this time at love. Gauff then held serve twice consecutively, ultimately clinching the title after a grueling match that lasted 2 hours and 38 minutes.