Ukrainian Star Prevails in Epic Encounter

Elina Svitolina will compete for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships title on Saturday after a hard-fought, three-set victory over Coco Gauff, 6-4, 6-7 (13-15), 6-4. The match lasted over three hours, showcasing both players’ resilience and determination.

Svitolina, the two-time champion in Dubai (2017, 2018), will face American Jessica Pegula in the final. Pegula advanced after defeating compatriot Amanda Anisimova 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the other semi-final match.

A Test of Endurance and Will

The Ukrainian player demonstrated remarkable tenacity, particularly after failing to convert four match points in the second-set tie-break. Despite the setback, Svitolina regrouped and secured the decisive break in the final set to claim the victory.

“I was playing like there is no tomorrow, just trying to put all the effort in,”

Elina Svitolina

Svitolina’s recent form has been impressive, highlighted by her title win in Auckland earlier this year and a strong showing at the Australian Open, where she was defeated by Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals.

Pegula Awaits in the Final

Jessica Pegula will present a formidable challenge in the final. She overcame a difficult start against Anisimova, battling back from a first-set loss to secure her place in the championship match.

Other Notable Results

In the Qatar Open, world number one Carlos Alcaraz continued his undefeated start to 2026 with a 7-6 (7-3), 6-4 win over Andrey Rublev. He will face Arthur Fils in the final.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams has been awarded a wildcard entry into Indian Wells, where she will compete in both singles and doubles.

FAQ

• Who did Elina Svitolina defeat to reach the final? Elina Svitolina defeated Coco Gauff.
• Who will Svitolina play in the final? Svitolina will play Jessica Pegula.
• How long did the match between Svitolina and Gauff last? The match lasted three hours and three minutes.