RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Defending champion Coco Gauff revived her chances of advancing at the WTA Finals with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Jasmine Paolini on Tuesday.
Gauff also improved her serving, hitting only three double-faults – far fewer than the 17 that she produced in her opening match, a three-set loss to Jessica Pegula.
“Definitely a turnaround from my first match,” Gauff said. “It’s the beauty of this tournament and to have another chance to prove yourself.”
Gauff next faces top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka to determine if she advances in the season-ending event for the top eight players, while Paolini was eliminated from contention with two losses.
Sabalenka leads the group after beating Pegula 6-4, 2-6, 6-3.
Paolini is also playing doubles at the event with partner Sara Errani.
“I don’t think Jasmine was 100% today,” Gauff said. “Playing singles and doubles is not easy.”