Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff will face off in the Miami Open final, marking their 13th meeting in a highly anticipated clash. The top-seeded Belarusian, seeking to win the "Sunshine Double," will take on the South Floridian at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday. Gauff has reached the final for the first time, having previously beaten Sabalenka in the 2023 US Open and 2025 French Open finals. The series between the two players is knotted at 6-6, with Sabalenka having won their last meeting in the group stage of the WTA Finals in November.
Their growing rivalry has been marked by physical and intense matches, with Gauff acknowledging the challenge of facing Sabalenka. "She's playing great tennis. She's definitely world No 1 for a reason, and it's going to be a great challenge," Gauff said. Sabalenka, meanwhile, praised Gauff's tenacity and skill, describing her as a "fighter" and "incredible player." Gauff's first Miami Open final appearance comes after she had to retire from her third-round match in Indian Wells due to a nerve injury.
Sabalenka's strong following in Miami, courtesy of her Brazilian fiance, is expected to add to the electric atmosphere at Hard Rock Stadium. The two players will face off at 3pm EDT on Saturday, with Sabalenka seeking to win her second consecutive March hard-court tournament.
Coco Gauff's determination to play in the Miami Open despite her injury has paid off, and she now has the opportunity to make history by defeating defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. Gauff's ability to push Sabalenka into long rallies will be crucial in this match, and her experience of beating Sabalenka in previous finals could give her an edge.
