“I have the belief that I’m one of the best players in the world”: Coco Gauff confidence soars after defeating Iga Swiatek at United Cup
WTA
Coco Gauff shared her thoughts after defeating Iga Swiatek for the second consecutive time, paving the way for Team USA’s victory at the United Cup. The World No. 3 starts the year full of confidence, particularly after ending 2024 with a title at the WTA Finals.
The American has won 18 of her last 20 matches, securing titles at the China Open and the WTA Finals, and now a team trophy for the USA. “I have the belief that I’m one of the best players in the world,” she said. “Today, I think I played some great tennis.”
Gauff breaks the spell: Another win over Swiatek
Swiatek had won 11 of their first 12 matches, but Gauff seems to have found answers to the Pole’s game, now claiming back-to-back wins—at the WTA Finals and now the United Cup—though Swiatek still leads the head-to-head 11-3.
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Looking at the sets, Swiatek had dominated early encounters, winning 23 of their first 25 sets. However, Gauff’s last two wins were achieved in straight sets. “I’m glad to get a point on board for Team USA. It was tough today, I’m not gonna lie. There were a lot of Polish fans. I appreciate the atmosphere. Thank you to the US fans, especially the ones up here that were carrying [the energy].”
Gauff also acknowledged that even a loss would have left Team USA with a chance to win the title. "I realized the worst thing that can happen today is I lose. In this type of format, even if I lose, we still have a chance to win. I just said, ‘I’m gonna give my best effort,’ and I think that’s all the team can ask of me.”
Gauff will now travel to Melbourne to make final preparations for the Australian Open. As the third seed, she positions herself as one of the title favourites, riding a wave of confidence.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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mandoist12-11-2026 - Tell this to Andreeva!mandoist12-11-2026
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- I predicted whenthe list was finalised that Linda Noskova would win the WTA Finals and her matches against Gauff and Kostyuk prove that. She is the best (underrated) player in the world!Rapunzel11-11-2026
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