Coco Gauff has experienced both disappointments and victories this year, quickly turning setbacks into victories to claim her second title of 2018 at China Open. Buoyed by newfound momentum, Gauff now heads toward Wuhan Open determined to lift yet another trophy; her only challenger remains Aryna Sabalenka; an opponent renowned for having incredible season form.
On Saturday, fans are in anticipation of an electrifying semi-final match between Belarusian superstar Alexander Rybka and their opponents – an encounter which promises to showcase top level skills by both athletes.
Preview of Coco Gauff vs. Aryna Sabalenka
Since the US Open, Gauff has been unstoppable, enjoying a nine-match winning streak and losing only two sets throughout these contests. Her impressive hard-court win rate of 79% this season places her in a favorable position for the upcoming match. The year 2024 marked a significant transition for Gauff, with a coaching change to Matt Daly, which has brought immediate positive outcomes. Her recent triumph over World No. 45 Magda Linette in straight sets 6-0, 6-4 has improved her season’s win-loss record to 48-14.
Aryna Sabalenka enters the scene with a string of successes, including two Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and the US Open, alongside a Cincinnati Masters victory. Sabalenka boasts an undefeated record in Wuhan, maintaining a 15-0 streak at the venue, which contributes to her confidence this year. With an 84% win rate on hard courts, winning 52 out of 64 matches, Sabalenka presents a formidable challenge.
Head-to-Head: Coco Gauff vs Aryna Sabalenka
Gauff and Sabalenka have met seven times on the WTA circuit, with Gauff leading 4-3 in head-to-head battles. Most recently at this year’s Australian Open where Sabalenka emerged victorious. Both athletes have an intense rivalry which may soon yield another hard fought matchup!
Prediction: Aryna Sabalenka to Secure Victory in a Three-Set Battle
Sabalenka and Gauff have recently displayed strong performances. Sabalenka appears more poised than Gauff to even up their head-to-head total as evidenced by her baseline game and aggressive returns, breaking opponents fifteen times this season while only committing six double faults at Wuhan Open. Gauff may find Sabalenka’s form difficult to combat; she amassed twelve double faults over her past three matches combined and may find Sabalenka difficult to stop from progressing into finals after leading at times; ultimately Sabalenka should prevail and advance into finals despite Gauff’s best efforts and make way.