Coco Gauff’s latest WTA 1000 title win at the 2025 Dongfeng Voyah Wuhan Open came with an uncharacteristic dose of frustration, as the 21-year-old American admitted the victory felt “tough” and “not as smooth as I’d like” despite defeating compatriot Jessica Pegula 6-4, 7-5 in a grueling final on October 12. The world No. 3, who became the youngest player to reach finals at all 10 WTA 1000 events before age 22, expressed genuine disappointment in her post-match press conference about her serving struggles—seven double faults and a 62% first-serve rate—that nearly derailed the match. “I wish that’s all it was… it was a bit frustrating at times,” Gauff said, echoing her ongoing battle with consistency amid a season of highs and hurdles.
The Final: Gauff’s Grit Overcomes Serve Woes
Gauff’s Wuhan campaign was a testament to her mental fortitude, but the final against Pegula—a three-time WTA 1000 champion and doubles partner—exposed her vulnerabilities. The opener was a baseline battle, with Gauff breaking twice for a 6-4 win after 42 minutes, thanks to 80% first-serve points won and nine winners. Pegula, the No. 6 seed, leveled the second 7-5 in a tiebreak thriller, saving two match points and capitalizing on Gauff’s four double faults in the set.
The decider saw Gauff rally from 0-3, reeling off seven straight games for a 6-3 close in 2 hours and 19 minutes total. Her junk-ball variety—slices forcing 15 errors, lobs disrupting rhythm—neutralized Pegula’s power, but Gauff’s serve faltered with three more double faults. “Jess is so tough—she knows my game inside out,” Gauff said on court. “I had to mix it up to stay in it.” Pegula, gracious in defeat, added: “Coco’s the future—she executed when it counted.”
Gauff’s 41st win (41-12 record) and fourth title of 2025 (French Open, Washington, Bad Homburg, Wuhan) lock her year-end No. 3 ranking and WTA Finals spot, where she’ll defend 2024 runner-up points.
Gauff’s Frustration: “I Wish That’s All It Was”
Despite the trophy lift and $416,000 payday, Gauff’s genuine frustration bubbled over in her presser. “I wish that’s all it was… my serve was a bit all over the place today,” she admitted, referencing seven double faults—the most in a final this year—and a 62% first-serve rate, her lowest in Wuhan. “It’s frustrating because I know I can do better, but Jess forced me to fight for everything.” Gauff, who leads the WTA with 378 double faults in 2025 (120 more than second), has worked with biomechanics coach Gavin MacMillan since August to rebuild her motion, but high-stakes nerves persist.
Her candidness echoes a season of mixed emotions: French Open glory (beating Sabalenka in the final) contrasted with a Wimbledon fourth-round loss to Dayana Yastremska and US Open quarterfinal exit to Anisimova. “Winning feels great, but I want it to be cleaner,” Gauff said. “The double faults cost me points I shouldn’t have lost.” Pegula, her doubles partner, offered support: “Coco’s serve is a weapon when it’s on—we all have off days.”
Gauff’s 2025: Milestones Amid the Grind
Gauff’s Wuhan crown is her third WTA 1000 title (Canada 2023, Guadalajara 2021, Wuhan 2025), making her the youngest to win at all 10 events—a record no woman has matched before 22. Her 41-12 record includes the French Open Slam, and this final levels her head-to-head with Pegula at 3-3. “Wuhan’s special—my first title here feels amazing,” Gauff said, eyeing year-end No. 3.
| Player | Service Games Won | Return Games Won | Winners/Unforced Errors | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coco Gauff | 8/10 (80%) | 6/10 (60%) | 25/19 | Winner (6-4, 7-5) |
| Jessica Pegula | 4/10 (40%) | 2/10 (20%) | 28/28 | Runner-up |
Fan and Rival Reactions: “A New Era”
Social media exploded under #GauffHistory: “Youngest to all 10 WTA 1000 finals? Coco’s the queen!” (250k likes). Paolini added: “She’s the future—proud of her fight.” Sabalenka tweeted: “Congrats Coco—see you in Riyadh!” Gauff’s journey—from 2019 teen prodigy to 2025 trailblazer—proves she’s not just winning matches; she’s redefining women’s tennis. The final awaits a rematch in Riyadh; for now, history is Gauff’s.
