US Open 2023 champion and world number four, Coco Gauff, shared her insights into the reasons behind her loss in the WTA 1000 tournament final in Madrid, Spain. The American was defeated by Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka with a score of 3/6, 6/7(3). Notably, in the second set, Gauff held a 5/3 lead.
Speaking after the match, Gauff explained the key factors contributing to the outcome:
“My first-serve percentage was very low. When you play against someone as aggressive as Aryna, you definitely need to land more first serves. I wish I could have done that better. I had a set point in the second set, and there were opportunities to get ahead in the tie-break.”
Additionally, Gauff posted on her personal social media account following the tournament`s conclusion.
“Thank you, Madrid. This wasn`t the outcome I hoped for, but there is a lot to be proud of. I am leaving here with my head held high and lots of motivation to work even harder to do better next time,” the player wrote, reflecting on her performance and looking ahead.
Marcus Blakely 
Gilbert Pendleton