Coco Gauff has fallen just short of returning to WTA Tour success, having lost the Madrid Open final to Aryna Sabalenka.
Sabalenka has predicted more finals with Gauff, with the former defeating the latter 6-3, 7-6(7-3) in Spain.
Former world number one Tracy Austin thinks Gauff has taken a big step forward after reaching the final, having been the fourth seed at the Madrid Open.
WTA number one Sabalenka was the top seed at the tournament, and now has three titles in the 2025 season so far.
The Belarusian has also tied her head-to-head record with Gauff with the success, which now stands at 5-5.
Coco Gauff upbeat despite Madrid Open final loss to Aryna Sabalenka
The American meanwhile has remained upbeat despite the defeat, with her focus now set to turn to the Italian Open.
Turning to social media after the final, the 2023 US Open champion wrote on Instagram: “Thank you Madrid.
“Not the outcome I was hoping for today but a lot to be proud of. Leaving here with my head up and more motivation to work even harder to do better next time.”
Taylor Townsend and Prakash Amritraj message Coco Gauff after Madrid Open final loss
Gauff entered the final leading Sabalenka 5-4 in their head-to-head, having won their only previous clay court match.
That arrived in Rome in 2021, with the American looking good to at least force a decided after leading the second set 5-4.
That came after Sabalenka produced a superb display to take the first, before eventually holding on for a one-hour, 39-minute win.
Gauff’s wait for a first title of the season now continues, although her efforts in Madrid have rightfully drawn praise.
Former player turned reporter Prakash Amritraj replied to Gauff saying: “You were so awesome this week Co!”
And two-time Grand Slam doubles champion Taylor Townsend responded with the words: “She’s a real 1!”
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