Coco Gauff has been praised for her class and sportsmanship after beating Jessica Pegula to win the Cincinnati Open. The 22-year-old needed an hour and 14 minutes to come through the all-American final, winning 6-2 6-4.
Friends and rivals on court
The pair are good friends and former doubles partners, but Pegula admitted it was “not fun to play against” Gauff on Sunday, as she was getting every ball back. The 32-year-old also touched on how long she had known Gauff, and the world No. 4 returned the favour during her own victory speech.
“You’re an incredible player, that goes without saying, and always playing you is always tough,” the Cincinnati champion said. “I don’t like seeing you on the other side of the court, but I like playing with you. But yeah, I just wanted to say congratulations. You’re an incredible person and player, and congrats to your team. You guys are also incredible people. One of the best teams on tour.”
Gauff thanks Pegula for early welcome
Pegula had already touched on Gauff’s arrival on the tour as a teenager in 2019, and the two-time Major champion responded by thanking the world No. 3 for being one of the first players to truly welcome her.
“When I first came on tour, she was one of the few players that was nice to me, and seriously, that’s always stuck a long way with me and my family,” the 22-year-old added. “I have so much respect for you, so it’s an honour to share the court with you once again. Hopefully we can run it back a couple times.”
Fans praise sportsmanship
Gauff’s comments have won over tennis fans, who praised her for giving such a graceful winners’ speech. “Can’t top Coco’s class. She sets the bar so high in the sportsmanship game,” @ForemanKay4577 wrote.
“Great sportswomanship from Gauff. I love these kinds of interactions!” @CynAm3lia_99 tweeted. And @Prosperslane added: “Great sportsmanship. She's so humble. What a player.”
Others also praised Pegula. “It is such a pleasure to see Jessica and Coco together on court. It sucks one of them has to lose. They are my two favorite women tennis players ever! So much class!” @debbyboyle wrote, while @MsEnsom said: “Two classy, classy athletes right there. Well done ladies!”
Fans also pointed out that Gauff and Pegula were part of a strong pack of American tennis players full of confidence heading into the US Open. “American women’s tennis >>>” @MrSuperJay tweeted.
US Open stakes
Gauff will be seeking her third Major title and second US Open crown in Flushing Meadows over the coming week, while Pegula is still on the hunt for a maiden Grand Slam title. If either woman wins the title, they will become No. 1 in the world for the very first time. Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina are also in contention for the top spot after the US Open.
