Coco Gauff Reaches Italian Open Final After Epic Win Over Qinwen Zheng

Coco Gauff has advanced to the 2025 Italian Open final after an unforgettable three set battle against Qinwen Zheng, in what has now been confirmed as the longest WTA match of the year. The American star showed grit, stamina, and sheer willpower to outlast her opponent in a match that tested every ounce of her mental and physical strength.

⏱️ A Marathon Semifinal in Rome

Gauff’s victory came after a 3 hour, 28 minute thriller on the clay courts of Foro Italico. The match saw dramatic momentum swings, extended rallies, and a roaring crowd that elevated every point. Gauff lost the opening set but stormed back with a tactical adjustment and steely nerves.

• Final score: 5–7, 7–6(4), 6–4
• Longest WTA match of the 2025 season
• Gauff saved 10 break points and hit 35 winners in the comeback

“Don’t play with me,” Gauff declared post match. “I came here to win.”

Her statement has already gone viral, encapsulating the fire and confidence she’s brought to the clay this spring.

🧠 Tactical Maturity and Mental Strength

The win wasn’t just about athleticism it was about evolving tactics. Gauff adjusted her return position, attacked Zheng’s second serve, and found consistency in high pressure moments. This victory adds to her growing reputation as a player who thrives when matches go the distance.

• Improved first serve percentage in final set
• Won 70% of net approaches
• Held her nerve during 12 deuce service game to close the match

This wasn’t just survival it was strategic mastery under pressure.

🏆 Eyes on the Title

With this win, Gauff advances to her second WTA 1000 final on clay and looks poised to claim her biggest career title ahead of Roland Garros.

• Final opponent: TBD (match between Iga Świątek and Aryna Sabalenka)
• Gauff’s clay court form: 11–2 this season
• Victory would mark her first Italian Open title and third WTA 1000 crown

Given her form, resilience, and mindset, she enters the final as a serious threat no matter the opponent.

📰 Final Thoughts

Coco Gauff’s run to the Italian Open final is defined by fire, focus, and fight. After surviving the longest WTA match of 2025, she’s proven once again that she’s not just a contender she’s a champion in waiting. Rome may very well be the start of something special.