Coco Gauff was more pleased that the season is now done more than winning the
WTA Finals. Unlike others she won't head to the Billie Jean King Cup Finals, albeit it won't be a long break.
She is pencilled in to return at the United Cup so in reality, it is very much a four week break if that for Gauff and less than with preparations ramped up early. But after a taxing year and one where she has dealt with expectations and pressure, she came away with the biggest prize.
She showed real fight, grit and determination to knock down Qinwen Zheng who looked like an immovable wall this week and at times in the early going. But testament to her in the way she fought and never gave up and got her reward.
“I’m tired and happy the season is over, it was a great match, Qinwen played great tennis, I tried my best to hang in there and I never gave up,” she told Sky Sports.
“I’ve been in situations like this in the past and have been able to turn it around and I was so glad to do it again.”
On court, it was her turn to thank not only her team but also praise Zheng Qinwen for playing a superb season and a final that perhaps she will lament losing.
“I want to congratulate Qinwen on an incredible match and tournament. You had a stellar season. Winning the gold medal and reaching so many finals. Hopefully we can play many more finals together. Congrats to your team too. You guys are very nice. It’s fun competition.”
“I’d to thank my team. It’s been a long season. I want to say thank you. This week has been so fun. Win or lose, I always have a good time with you guys. Thank you to my parents. My mom is here. My dad is watching at home.. my brother.. my grandparents. Thank you to the man above for allowing me to be here.”