Coco Gauff secured a statement victory over Iga Swiatek, defeating the world No. 2 in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4, in the opening match of the United Cup final on Sunday. The 20-year-old’s impressive comeback performance not only earned Team USA an early lead but also sparked intrigue with her celebratory gesture and Swiatek’s icy post-match handshake.
A Battle of Grit and Determination
Gauff, the top-ranked American female tennis player, showcased her resilience in both sets. Despite trailing by a break in each, she rallied to seal her third career victory over Swiatek in their 14-match rivalry. The match highlighted Gauff’s growing confidence and ability to handle high-pressure moments against one of the sport’s most formidable competitors.
“I have the belief that I’m one of the best players in the world,” Gauff said post-match. “When I play good tennis, I’m hard to beat. It was tough today, I’m not gonna lie.”
The “Digging” Celebration Sparks Debate
Gauff’s celebratory gesture—mimicking a digging motion—drew attention and varied interpretations:
- Supporters’ View: Many saw it as symbolic of the mental and physical effort Gauff put into overcoming Swiatek.
- Critics’ Perspective: Others speculated it could be a subtle jab at her Polish rival, adding a layer of tension to their already competitive dynamic.
Regardless of intent, the gesture underscored the significance of the win for Gauff, who has now defeated Swiatek in consecutive matches for the first time in her career.
A Frosty Exchange at the Net
Adding to the intrigue, Swiatek appeared to offer a noticeably cold handshake at the net after the match. While the 23-year-old refrained from publicly commenting on the interaction, the brief exchange fueled speculation about underlying tension between the two stars.
A Rivalry Heating Up
Gauff’s win marks a potential turning point in her head-to-head with Swiatek, which still heavily favors the Pole (11-3). Their most recent meetings, including Gauff’s WTA Finals victory in November, indicate the American is finding ways to neutralize Swiatek’s dominance on court.
Team USA’s Momentum
Gauff’s victory sets the stage for Team USA in the United Cup final, with Taylor Fritz taking on Hubert Hurkacz in the next match. Should Fritz secure a win, the United States will clinch the team title.
Looking Ahead
As Gauff continues to build momentum heading into the 2025 season, her growing confidence and tactical adjustments are positioning her as a legitimate threat at the top of women’s tennis. Meanwhile, Swiatek will look to regroup and refocus after a rare back-to-back loss to her younger rival.