American Coco Gauff, 19, won her first Grand Slam title, after taking the U.S. Open women’s singles title in three sets against Aryna Sabalenka from Belarus.
Gauff won 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 to become only the third American teen to win the final grand slam of the year, joining the ranks of Serena Williams and Tracy Austin.
The last time an American woman won the tournament was in 2017 when Sloane Stephens bested fellow American Madison Keys.
“I feel like I’m a little bit in shock in this moment,” Gauff said during on-court remarks following the win.
“I’m just thankful for this moment, I don’t have any words for it, to be honest,” she said.
After winning, Gauff ran into the stands to hug her parents, coach and other guests of her player’s box. Gauff said today was the first time she’s ever seen her father
The teen also made a pointed statement to the naysayers, saying, “Thank you to the people who didn’t believe in me.”
“To those who thought they were putting water on my fire, you were…
