Coco Gauff: American beaten in epic as Elina Svitolina reaches Dubai final
BBC World
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Coco Gauff, the rising American tennis star, saw her hopes of reaching an all-American final dashed as Elina Svitolina triumphed in a grueling three-hour-and-three-minute match at the Dubai Tennis Championships. The 21-year-old Gauff, ranked world number four, had a chance to make history but fell short against the tenacious Ukrainian veteran, who battled back from multiple set points to secure a 6-4 6-7 (13-15) 6-4 victory. Svitolina’s resilience and determination showcased her experience and mental toughness, as she fought off four match points in the second-set tie-break before sealing the win in the decisive third set.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Gauff pushing hard to maintain her composure but ultimately succumbing to the pressure. Svitolina’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, especially considering her age and the physical toll of the match. Her ability to stay focused under immense pressure highlighted her competitive spirit, which has been a hallmark of her career. The victory not only advanced her to the final but also marked her first appearance in the Dubai finals since 2018, reigniting memories of her dominance during back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018.
Svitolina’s win sets up an intriguing final against Jessica Pegula, another American player who had already secured her spot in the championship. Pegula’s journey to the finals was no less dramatic, as she battled back from a disastrous first set and early break in the second set to defeat compatriot Amanda Anisimova 1-6 6-4 6-3. Her ability to recover and maintain composure under pressure demonstrated her maturity and fighting spirit.
The Dubai Championships have become a battleground for some of the world’s best tennis players, with both men’s and women’s tournaments drawing global attention. While Svitolina’s victory was a standout moment, the broader context of the event is equally compelling. In the men’s Qatar Open, world number one Carlos Alcar
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/20/2026