Gauff vs. Sabalenka – The stage is set for a blockbuster showdown at the French Open 2025 as World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka takes on No. 2 Coco Gauff in the women’s singles final — a battle that promises to deliver intensity, power, and historic significance.
For American tennis fans, all eyes are on 21-year-old sensation Coco Gauff, who is chasing her second Grand Slam title and her first at Roland Garros. Her path to the final has been nothing short of dominant — including a statement win over French underdog Loïs Boisson (6-1, 6-2) and a quarterfinal victory against Australian Open champion Madison Keys. Gauff, who turned 21 this March, has shown a new level of composure and tactical maturity that could be the edge she needs in this tightly matched rivalry.
But standing in her way is the fierce and in-form Aryna Sabalenka. The Belarusian star enters Saturday’s final with momentum on her side, having just dethroned three-time defending champion Iga Świątek in a gritty semifinal performance. That win alone has bolstered Sabalenka’s claim to be the most dominant player in the world this season — she’s already played in two Grand Slam finals in 2025 and owns a 40-6 match record this year.
Head-to-Head: Evenly Matched Rivals
This isn’t the first meeting between the two heavyweights. Their rivalry is dead even at 5-5, with Sabalenka winning the most recent contest in Madrid last month (6-3, 7-6). While Gauff won their 2023 US Open final, Sabalenka has taken three of the last four matchups, giving her a psychological and statistical edge heading into the clay finale.
What Gauff Needs to Win
Tennis analysts agree: Gauff’s serve is the key. When her first-serve percentage is above 60%, she becomes nearly unbeatable. Experts like Pam Shriver and Rennae Stubbs point to her elite court coverage and strong backhand as tools that can frustrate Sabalenka. But if her forehand wavers or her serve falters, the match could swing quickly.
“She has to land her first serves and keep the scoreboard pressure on Sabalenka,” said Stubbs. “Her defensive speed is world-class, but she can’t afford double faults.”
What Sabalenka Must Do
For Sabalenka, the game plan is clear: power, precision, and composure. She must press Gauff’s forehand, attack her second serve, and avoid over-hitting during long rallies. Her performance against Swiatek — mixing aggression with finesse — showed that she has evolved beyond being just a power player.
“She’s playing the most confident tennis of her life,” noted Simon Cambers. “If she maintains that balance between raw force and tactical patience, she becomes nearly unbeatable.”
A Final Worthy of No. 1 vs. No. 2
This is the first time since Serena Williams vs. Maria Sharapova in 2015 that the women’s French Open final features the top two seeds. It’s not just a battle for the title — it’s a showdown for legacy. Sabalenka seeks her fourth Grand Slam title and her first on clay, while Gauff aims to cement her place as the next great American champion.
With the match scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. ET on Saturday, June 7, viewers can catch the action live on TNT, truTV, or stream it on Max (formerly HBO Max).
Prediction? Too Close to Call
Experts are split. Some give the edge to Sabalenka’s explosive form, while others believe Gauff’s experience in finals and mental resolve could lead her to victory. “It’s Gauff’s time,” said ESPN’s Tom Hamilton. “If she starts strong and keeps Sabalenka from getting into rhythm, she can walk away with the trophy.”
Regardless of the outcome, tennis fans are in for a thrilling display of athleticism and grit. Whether you’re rooting for America’s rising star or the dominant No. 1, this final promises to be a classic.