Aryna Sabalenka defeats Coco Gauff 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 to win the 2026 Miami Open
Aryna Sabalenka underlined her dominance in women’s tennis with a hard-fought 6–2, 4–6, 6–3 victory over Coco Gauff to win the Miami Open. The win sees the world No. 1 complete the prestigious Sunshine Double, having also lifted the Indian Wells Open title earlier this month.
A Match Worthy of the Final
Coming into the final, Sabalenka and Gauff were evenly matched, splitting their previous 12 meetings. Sabalenka dominated early, racing through the first set 6–2 with aggressive baseline play and precise serving.
Gauff responded strongly in the second set, raising her level to take it 4–6, showcasing her resilience and defensive brilliance. But in the decider, Sabalenka’s power proved decisive. She regained control, breaking at a crucial moment before closing out the match 6–3 to seal the title.
Sunshine Double Secured
With this victory, Sabalenka becomes the first player since Iga Swiatek in 2022 to complete the Sunshine Double, winning Indian Wells and Miami in the same season. She is just the fifth woman in history to achieve the feat, joining an elite group that includes Steffi Graf, Kim Clijsters, Victoria Azarenka, and Iga Swiatek.
- Read also: What is the Sunshine Double in Tennis?
Dominant Start to 2026
Sabalenka’s form this season has been nothing short of exceptional:
- 17 wins in 18 matches
- Titles in Brisbane, Indian Wells, and now Miami
- Only defeat coming in the Australian Open final to Elena Rybakina
Since that loss, she has responded emphatically, including back-to-back wins over Rybakina during the Sunshine Swing. This triumph also sees Sabalenka successfully defend her Miami Open title, become the first repeat champion since Ashleigh Barty (2019, 2021), and drop just one set throughout the tournament. Her consistency and dominance throughout the event further cement her status as the standout player on tour.
The Miami Open victory marks:
- 24th WTA singles title
- 30th career title overall (including doubles)
- 11 WTA 1000 singles titles
Her résumé also includes:
- Four Grand Slam singles titles
- Two Grand Slam doubles titles
Sabalenka has now spent over 80 weeks as world No. 1, including an ongoing streak that highlights her sustained excellence at the top.
Clear World No. 1 Statement
If there were any lingering doubts about the best player in women’s tennis right now, this run has answered them. Sabalenka’s ability to combine power, resilience, and consistency across multiple tournaments and against elite opponents like Gauff sets her apart in the current landscape.
What’s Next
For Gauff, the defeat ends an impressive Miami run but reinforces her status as a consistent contender at the highest level. For Sabalenka, the focus now shifts to maintaining momentum as the tour transitions toward the clay season, with confidence and form firmly on her side.
SportsLigue
