Coco Gauff Claims Rotterdam Open Title with Straight-Sets Victory Over Sabalenka

Coco Gauff continued her exceptional start to the 2026 season by capturing the Rotterdam Open title on Sunday, defeating former world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 6-2 in a dominant final performance at the Ahoy Rotterdam arena. The victory marks Gauff's third WTA title of the year and her ninth career singles championship.

The 21-year-old American controlled the match from the opening games, using her improved serve and aggressive return game to put immediate pressure on Sabalenka. Gauff broke serve in the fourth game of the first set and never looked back, showcasing the maturity and tactical awareness that have become hallmarks of her game since working with new coach Brad Gilbert.

Sabalenka, who was seeking her first title since the Australian Open, struggled to find her rhythm against Gauff's consistent baseline play and court coverage. The Belarusian star, known for her powerful groundstrokes, committed 31 unforced errors compared to just 14 from Gauff, who mixed patience with aggression throughout the 87-minute encounter.

The second set was even more one-sided, as Gauff raced to a 4-0 lead by winning 12 of the first 14 points. Her forehand, which has been a work in progress throughout her career, looked particularly sharp as she repeatedly found angles that pulled Sabalenka out of position. The American's improved movement and defensive skills also frustrated her opponent, turning potential winners into neutral rallies.

Gauff sealed the victory with her eighth ace of the match, falling to her knees in celebration before embracing Sabalenka at the net. The triumph moves her up to fourth in the WTA rankings and establishes her as one of the early favorites for the upcoming hardcourt season in the United States.

In her post-match interview, Gauff credited her team for helping her develop a more complete game. "I feel like I'm playing the best tennis of my career right now," she said. "The work we've done on my serve and return has given me so much confidence, and Brad has really helped me understand when to be aggressive and when to be patient." With three titles already in hand before March, Gauff appears poised for a breakthrough season that could see her challenge for her second Grand Slam championship.