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49 Days After Suffering Coco Gauff-Inflicted Heartbreak in New York, Aryna Sabalenka Voices ‘Love’-Filled Payback Ambition in Captivating Cancun

Published 10/28/2023, 7:59 AM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

After her heartrending loss in the U.S. Open, what’s next for the Belarusian tennis star, Aryna Sabalenka? In a candid moment post-match, Sabalenka reflects not just on defeat but on a potential electrifying rematch with Coco Gauff. As the tennis community buzzes with anticipation, one can’t help but wonder: is this the beginning of a riveting new rivalry? Dive in to discover Sabalenka’s perspective, her aspirations for the WTA Finals, and the nuanced dynamics between two tennis titans.

In a dramatic U.S. Open showdown, Aryna Sabalenka met the unstoppable force named Coco Gauff. While Gauff clinched her first Grand Slam, Sabalenka’s year told a broader story of prowess. With Gauff’s rise and Sabalenka’s milestones, is this the beginning of tennis’s next iconic duo? Explore a story of skill, determination, and a future filled with opportunities. As Sabalenka reveals her intentions, the plot takes an exciting turn. 

Revenge and respect: Aryna Sabalenka eyes a Gauff rematch after US Open upset

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Forty-nine days have elapsed since Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian second seed, suffered a striking loss to American teenager Coco Gauff in the U.S. Open women’s final. The intense battle that transpired on September 9, 2023, saw Gauff execute a masterful comeback, beating Sabalenka. This victory handed the young American her maiden Grand Slam title. Reflecting on that day, Sabalenka shared her feelings with journalists, “It was disappointing for me, but Coco Gauff played at such an unbelievable level and I have to accept this loss and look forward.” This is shared by The Tennis Letter on Twitter. However, Sabalenka wishes to do more than just look forward.

That forward-looking perspective is very much in line with Aryna Sabalenka’s competitive spirit. As she’s set her sights on future challenges, a tantalizing possibility looms on the horizon. When posed with the prospect of a rematch with Gauff at the upcoming WTA Finals, Sabalenka’s response was both eager and affectionate. “Yes, I would like to. I would love to,” she said, hinting at a desire for payback and an underlying respect for her formidable opponent.

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While the U.S. Open showcased an unforeseen twist in Sabalenka’s journey, her prowess throughout the year remained undeniable. Sabalenka’s tenacity in the face of fierce competition paints a broader picture of her year in tennis. But what does this touching rivalry entail?

Aryna Sabalenka vs Coco Gauff: the ascension of tennis’s next grand duel

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At the U.S. Open women’s final, Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian second seed, started strong but faced a resilient teenager, Coco Gauff. Sabalenka’s initial dominance gave way as Gauff rallied from behind, eventually clinching a 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 victory. While Gauff celebrated her maiden Grand Slam title, reminiscent of Serena Williams in 2001, Sabalenka grappled with mounting unforced errors, wrapping up her stellar 2023 Grand Slam journey on a bittersweet note. This face-off added a gripping chapter to the evolving rivalry in the tennis realm.

via Getty

Aryna Sabalenka, the formidable World No.1 in women’s singles, had a noteworthy journey in 2023. Following her runner-up feat at the 2022 WTA Finals, she showcased her mettle in Dubai and at Indian Wells. She reached the finals after besting top talents like Jelena Ostapenko and Coco Gauff. Her crowning achievement came with clinching the 2023 Australian Open singles title. Adding to her impressive Major doubles titles from the 2019 US Open and 2021 Australian Open alongside Elise Mertens.

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In 2023, Aryna Sabalenka’s prowess faced Coco Gauff’s meteoric rise, particularly at the U.S. Open. With both eyeing the WTA Finals, a rematch seems inevitable. As the tennis world watches, who will lead in their next face-off?

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Written by:

Akshata Aditya Rajmane

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Akshata Aditya Rajmane is a tennis writer at EssentiallySports. Right from her early childhood, Akshata has been a sports enthusiast, following a variety of sports, including badminton, tennis, and soccer. Although she is an ardent fan of the "Big Three", at ES, she is focused on covering the off-court activities of the biggest ATP and WTA stars.
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Edited by:

Shudh.mukherjee