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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