Coco Gauff’s hopes of winning the Miami Open were ended by Aryna Sabalenka on Saturday.
The 21-year-old, who has maintained her status as America’s highest ranked WTA player, was beaten 2-6, 3-6 in the Miami Open final.
Sabalenka, the world number one, has become the first WTA player to complete the ‘Sunshine Double’ since Iga Swiatek in 2022, and only the fifth female player to do so in Open Era history.
Do you think Coco Gauff will win a Grand Slam title this year?
As for Gauff, the American has received her fair share of criticism over the past year – largely focused on her wayward serving.
However, in Miami this week, Gauff once again proved her doubters wrong.
Coco Gauff remains a major contender for Grand Slam titles
Despite her young age, Coco Gauff has become one of the most scrutinised players on the planet.
Over the past year, the American has dealt with an almost constant stream of criticism – much of which has been unfair considering her talent, maturity and relative youth on the Tour.
Yet, Gauff time and time again proves that she is a major player for the big WTA Tour titles.
This week in Miami was no different. The 21-year-old battled her way through multiple tough three-set matches and almost defeated Aryna Sabalenka in the final.
When Gauff is performing at her best, she can challenge the very best – as demonstrated by her match with Sabalenka.
There is no better defensive player on the WTA Tour; and with the clay-court swing right around the corner, Gauff is coming into form at just the right time.
Where will Coco Gauff be ranked at the end of 2026?
Is Coco Gauff the French Open favourite?
When analysing the recent performances of the French Open contenders, it is difficult to rule Coco Gauff out of contention.
The American remains one of the best clay-court players on the Tour, and the surface is tailor-made to her defensive game style and rapid speed.
Gauff claimed recently that she is the fastest player on the WTA Tour, and her quick speed will be invaluable when she competes at the French Open later this year.
Of course, Iga Swiatek will be a strong contender, as will Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina – both of whom have started the year in superb form.
However, Gauff may have the edge over her peers.
Her experience of winning the 2025 French Open will be invaluable heading into the 2026 event; and if she can carry her recent good form into the clay-court swing, there is no telling what she could achieve.
Of course, there is a lot of pressure on Gauff to perform. After all, she is defending over 3,000 WTA points over the clay-court swing.
However, if anyone can rise to the occasion, it is Gauff.
