'Crowd Really Helped Me'

Gauff calmly rallies after losing first set to beat 'hurt' Sabalenka for her second Slam

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PARIS - Coco Gauff battled back from a set down to beat world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a Grand Slam final for the second time with a dramatic victory in the French Open showpiece on June 7.

The second-ranked American dug deep to claim a 6-7 (5-7), 6-2, 6-4 victory on Court Philippe-Chatrier and her second Major title, after also defeating Sabalenka at the 2023 US Open.

Before the trophy presentation, an announcement instructed fans to watch the big screen for a highlights reel of the women's tournament — Sabalenka chose not to, understandably, and covered her head with a towel.

"I didn't think honestly that I could do it. The crowd really helped me (get back into the match)," said Gauff.

"I'd like to congratulate Aryna. You're a fighter. You're the No. 1 player in the world. I know today was a tough match, but you deserve all the results you've been having. Every time we play, it's such a tough match for me.

"I'd like to thank my parents. You guys have done a lot for me, from washing my clothes to keeping me grounded and giving me the belief that I can do it.