At the WTA Finals 2025, Jessica Pegula delivered a tactical masterclass to defeat Coco Gauff, proving that familiarity in tennis can be a weapon when used wisely. Gauff entered the clash buzzing with belief after her recent triumph against Pegula in Wuhan, yet that confidence met a strategic wall in Cancun.
Pegula used her knowledge of Gauff’s habits to break down rallies, read patterns early, and dictate momentum. The match, ending 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-2, revealed the fine margins between close friends who share not only courts but strategies.
Before stepping on court, Gauff acknowledged it would demand adjustment, saying, “It’s one of those matches where you have your game plan, but you have to be able to adjust because she might know my game plan already.” Her prediction came true, as Pegula quickly found cracks to strike through.
Gauff’s Serve Troubles Return at the Worst Time
Despite a strong start, Gauff’s serve faltered under pressure. She admitted afterward, “Obviously, a little frustrated with the serve today. Overall, it was a tough match for me. Jess played well, and I thought she was playing a bit smarter than she was when we played in Wuhan.”
The numbers highlighted her struggle — 17 double faults, 45 forehand unforced errors, and nine service breaks conceded. Each toss appeared tense, showing how momentum slipped away with every missed first serve. The match felt less like a battle of power and more like a test of mental clarity and court IQ.
Fans could sense the weight on Gauff’s shoulders. Her serve, usually a developing weapon, became a vulnerability Pegula attacked relentlessly.
Pegula Executes With Precision and Poise
While Gauff searched for rhythm, Pegula remained composed. Her plan was clear: absorb pace, stay patient, and pick the right moments to accelerate. She explained, “Coco’s entire game is about disrupting you—she’s so fast and makes you play so many balls. Even in the second set, I felt I had chances. She served really well at times, got free points, but I just wanted to stay focused in the third. I knew what I had to do, and it was about keeping that balance between being aggressive and not overplaying.”
Pegula’s calm focus paid off. She secured her 25th career win over a Top-10 opponent and 52nd win of the season, signaling her continued rise. Speaking to Tennis Channel, she added, “It’s tough because against a great champion like Coco, you have to execute everything perfectly. She makes you earn every point.”
Her coach Mark Knowles praised her hunger and resilience, noting, “She’s a bit of a savage; I mean, she’s an incredible competitor. She’s very honest with herself. She’s not afraid to back down from any challenge. Pretty amazing.”
Pegula now prepares to meet world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka, while Gauff faces Jasmine Paolini in hopes of bouncing back. With both stars chasing semifinal spots, this defeat could either shake Gauff’s confidence or sharpen her resolve.
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