In an unexpected but thrilling finale at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Coco Gauff and Zheng Qinwen are set to face off for their first year-end championship. Fans anticipated a showdown between top seeds Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek, but Gauff and Zheng have stolen the spotlight with their inspired performances, each bringing unique strengths to Saturday’s match.
At 20, Gauff has been on a tear since her U.S. Open triumph, showing poise and a tenacious defense that has carried her to several notable wins, including a semifinal victory over World No. 1 Sabalenka. Throughout the tournament, her counterpunching style has been in full force, enabling her to absorb and redirect her opponents’ power. While her serve has shown inconsistencies, especially with double faults, her resilience in longer rallies has more than made up for it. Against Sabalenka, Gauff’s strategy was clear: stay in the rallies and capitalize on Sabalenka’s mistakes. This mindset, along with her newfound confidence, has been a recipe for success.
On the other side, Zheng Qinwen, fresh off an Olympic gold and a stellar post-Wimbledon run, brings a different approach. The 22-year-old’s powerful baseline game and booming serve have helped her dominate, hitting a tournament-high 35 aces. Despite moments of wavering, like her second-set dip against Barbora Krejcikova in the semis, Zheng has demonstrated impressive composure. When her focus slipped, she quickly recovered with clutch shots, showing a new mental toughness in high-pressure moments.
Gauff and Zheng met once before on clay in Rome, where Gauff prevailed. However, the fast hard court in Riyadh will add a different dynamic. Zheng’s aggressive play may benefit from the quick surface, yet it might also help Gauff’s counterpunches pack an extra punch.
Both players seem mentally and physically primed for the final, with Gauff citing her “relaxed” attitude as key to her recent success, and Zheng expressing that her “motivations are high.” If Gauff can maintain her serve’s consistency and leverage her defensive skills, she may have the upper hand. However, Zheng’s first-strike power could tip the scales if she can keep Gauff on her back foot.
As the WTA season finale approaches, this battle of contrasting styles promises an electrifying finish to an already remarkable year.
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