Barbora Krejcikova upsets Coco Gauff to reach semi-finals at 2024 WTA Finals and eliminate Iga Swiatek

Barbora Krejcikova pulled off a stunning straight set victory over Coco Gauff to qualify for the semi-finals at the 2024 WTA Finals Riyadh on Thursday (7 November).

The Czech tennis star prevailed 7-5, 6-4 to reach the final four, knocking defending champion Iga Swiatek out of the tournament in the process.

A unique scenario meant that Gauff, already qualified for the semi-finals, would secure Swiatek’s qualification with a win. Meanwhile, Wimbledon champion Krejcikova had to win to reach the final four at Swiatek’s expense.

This was only their second meeting and a first since Roland Garros three years ago, which was won by Krejcikova. It was the Czech who secured the first break of the match too, a crucial moment to give her the upper hand on the scoreboard.

Gauff had struggled with her serve in her last match. It was a different story today as she hit a remarkable nine aces in the opening set but Krejcikova’s aggressive returns saw her take the first set 7-5 and put one foot in the final four.

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Early in the second set, Gauff missed two huge opportunities to secure a break, as unforced errors on the American’s forehand were cause for personal frustration.

Krejcikova was putting in a top-class performance akin to her victorious Wimbledon run earlier this year.

The numbers were even but the Czech was in control, dominating at the net and saving six break points as well as converting her only attempt to seal the win in straight sets.

Next up are the semi-finals on Friday, 8 November ahead of the final on 9 November. Gauff faces a huge challenge against world number one Aryna Sabalenka before Krejcikova meets Zheng Qinwen.