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Coco Gauff started her quest for a second WTA Finals title in Indian Wells with a hard-fought victory over fellow American Jessica Pegula on Sunday evening. Gauff triumphed 6-4, 6-7, 6-2 in a back-and-forth encounter in California, drawing praise from tennis analysts for her mindset and resilience.
Andrea Petkovic Praises Gauff’s Mental Approach
Speaking on the Big T Podcast, former world number nine Andrea Petkovic shared an insightful moment she witnessed while sitting next to tournament director Garbine Muguruza. During the second set with Gauff trying to break Pegula’s serve at 6-5, Gauff missed a forehand return following a medium-paced wide first serve from Pegula.
Instead of showing frustration, Gauff turned around, clapped, and muttered to herself that Pegula had hit a good serve. Petkovic noted that most players, including herself, would have reacted angrily by questioning how they could miss such a return.
Brad Gilbert Highlights Resilience and Fitness
Brad Gilbert, who formerly coached Gauff alongside Andre Agassi and Andy Murray, pointed out Gauff’s remarkable resilience during the match, referencing her crucial hold from 0-40 down at 4-4 in the first set. Gilbert also praised Gauff for battling back after falling 5-1 down in the second set to put herself in a position to close out the match.
Furthermore, Gilbert highlighted that physical fitness played a significant role given the nearly 90-degree temperature in California. He explained that players who have not competed in three weeks struggle to simulate match play, which ultimately left Pegula’s legs looking weary toward the end of the contest.
Upcoming Matches and Statistical Milestones
Gauff aims to secure a spot in the semi-finals as she faces Marta Kostyuk and Linda Noskova later in the week. The two-time Grand Slam champion holds a 2-1 head-to-head record against Noskova and a 4-2 record against Kostyuk, with her match against Kostyuk scheduled for Tuesday after Pegula plays Noskova.
According to OptaAce, Gauff’s grueling win against Pegula tied her with Pegula for the most three-set victories in 2026, with both players securing 19 three-set wins this year. Meanwhile, Pegula will need to defeat Kostyuk on Tuesday to keep her semi-final hopes alive in California.
