Coco Gauff Faces Big Test To Break Through Svitolina Defences
Locker Room
May 15, 2026
Coco Gauff faces a monumental task to find her way through the increasingly formidable defences of Elina Svitolina.
The younger, fresher American is more than capable of beating her Ukrainian rival to land the title in Rome on Saturday, though.
Coco Gauff versus Elina Svitolina would also make for a spectacular match-up on Centre Court at Wimbledon 2026!
Both these players are hugely popular and admirable. They also provide fireworks every time they meet.
Svitolina, a 31-year-old mother, has emerged triumphant after recent classics against the 22-year-old Gauff at the Australian Open and then in Dubai.
She said on Friday night: ‘Our last match was out of this world. I’m going to re-watch that to find the ways…the tactics. Now I can rest, prepare and be ready for the final.’
Svitolina deserves that rest after an epic defensive display against the in-form Iga Swiatek. Elina saved eleven break points out of sixteen – and all five in the final set.
Her 6-4, 2-6, 6-2 victory left her on the brink of her first Italian title for eight years. She focused on Coco straight away and admitted: ‘We both know the way we bring the fight. I definitely have a game plan.’
Gauff earlier enjoyed a comparatively easy semi-final against Sorana Cirstea, winning 6-4, 6-3. The American will hope Svitolina finally runs out of steam after all her exertions.
Becoming the first back-to-back American finalist in Rome since the Williams sisters, Coco said this was her ‘most satisfying’ win of the week. She also pointed out how well she is serving at long last. And that could be key.
Coco Gauff and Elina Svitolina are in perfect form to play a classic final – and then thrill us all at Wimbledon 2026 as well.
Come and see Coco, Elina and the other top stars at the All England Club in London. The Championships are the highlight of the tennis year.
See our prices here for the show courts at Wimbledon 2026. Your debenture tickets will help you beat the queues and guarantee access to all the most exlcusive restaurants.
Above all, you’ll enjoy some great views of the most spectacular gladiatorial action on the planet!
Wimbledon 2026 awaits you.