Coco Gauff matches Serena Williams with Miami Open final appearance
Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images Coco Gauff secured her spot in the Miami Open final after an impressive win over Karolina Muchova, putting her one match away from lifting the trophy. It was arguably her best showing of the tournament so far, although she’s been in fine form right from the start. She now stands just one victory away from taking the title in front of a home crowd.
What makes it even more remarkable is that she managed it after pulling out of Indian Wells due to injury just last week. Gauff reaches Miami Open final, ties Serena Williams feat Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images OptaAce highlighted just how remarkable Gauff’s achievement is for someone her age, further adding to the significance of her run. From the moment she made her breakthrough as a 15-year-old, Gauff has been breaking new ground.
With two Grand Slam titles already to her name at just 22, she’s put together a CV that will eventually take her to the Hall of Fame. Lately though, Gauff has had some struggles with her serve that have slowed her progress. This Miami run was important for getting back on track, even before taking the final into account.
OptaAce also pointed out that Gauff is now the youngest American since Williams in 2003 to make it this far at Miami. Coco Gauff’s head-to-head against Sabalenka and Rybakina Gauff doesn’t yet know who she’ll be facing in the Miami Open final, but she’s well aware of the two players battling it out for that spot. Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina will add another chapter to their growing rivalry in 2026, with a title shot on the line.
Gauff has a strong record against both, so there’s reason for her to be confident heading into the match, regardless of who comes through. Even so, given their recent form and standing as the top two players in the world, there’s plenty of respect to go around. It’s worth noting that Gauff has faced Rybakina just once before and came out on top in that meeting.