French Open 2024: Coco Gauff Clinches Maiden Grand Slam Doubles Title with Katerina Siniakova

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Paris, Jun 9: Coco Gauff celebrated her first Grand Slam doubles title in a spectacular fashion by partnering with Katerina Siniakova to secure the French Open trophy on Sunday (June 9).

The American star, who captured the US Open singles title last year, and Siniakova, hailing from the Czech Republic, triumphed over Italians Jasmine Paolini and Sara Errani with a scoreline of 7-6 (5), 6-3 on the iconic Court Philippe Chatrier.

For Gauff, this victory marked a momentous occasion, coming after two previous defeats in Grand Slam doubles finals-at Roland Garros in 2022 and the US Open in 2021. The duo, who decided to team up just two days before the tournament, shared a celebratory kiss with the Coupe Simonne Mathieu, the prestigious winners' trophy.

"Third time's a charm. Thank you, Katerina, for playing with me. We decided two days before the tournament to play together," Gauff said, expressing her gratitude. She also acknowledged the fans, adding, "Thank you to the fans. I know 11:30 Sunday morning is early for most people. It's early for me."

The match also saw Paolini continuing her remarkable run at Roland Garros, having been the runner-up in the singles final to four-time champion Iga Swiatek just a day earlier. Swiatek had previously defeated Gauff in the singles semifinal, adding to the intense competition of the tournament.

Reflecting on her journey, Paolini said, "The last two weeks were very nice, very emotional. I have a lot of memories. I can't wait to be back."

Siniakova, a seasoned doubles player, added another major title to her illustrious career. She has now won eight Grand Slam doubles titles, including the French Open in 2018 and 2021, alongside her usual partner Barbora Krejcikova, with whom she holds a career Grand Slam in women's doubles.

Errani, a veteran player at 37, also boasts a career Slam in doubles with her former partner Roberta Vinci. The Italian duo captured the French Open title in 2012, the same year Errani reached the singles final.

"It's really special to be in this court again. I don't know how many more years I have to play. But, it's always special to play these kinds of matches," Errani reflected. "It will be special to play the Olympics here in this place. So, I'll see you in one month."

During the final, Errani's serve was broken twice in the first set, while Paolini held her ground on the baseline to support in the 11th game. Despite their efforts, Gauff and Siniakova clinched the first set when Errani's volley at the net went long. The pair quickly gained a 4-1 lead in the second set, putting Paolini under pressure. Although the Italians managed to fight back to 4-3, their momentum waned as Errani's serve was broken again, sealing their fate.

This victory not only marks a significant milestone in Gauff's burgeoning career but also cements Siniakova's status as a formidable force in women's doubles. The duo's spontaneous partnership and subsequent triumph highlight the unpredictable and thrilling nature of tennis.