2025 Wuhan Open: Rolex Ambassador Gauff Defeats Pegula to Claim Title

On October 12th Beijing time, the 2025 Wuhan Open women's singles and doubles titles were decided. Rolex ambassador and third seed Gauff beat sixth seed Pegula 6-4, 7-5 in the American derby, lifting the trophy with a flawless performance, securing her 11th career tour victory and third WTA 1000 title. Additionally, having lost only 25 games in five matches, Gauff set a new tournament record for the fewest games lost by a champion at Wuhan Open.

Gauff Claims the Women's Singles Title

Gauff showed unstoppable momentum early on, quickly establishing a 3-0 lead. Pegula gradually found her rhythm and leveled at 4-4, but Gauff closed the set with consecutive breaks and holds to take it 6-4. The second set was full of twists: Pegula surged ahead 3-0, but Gauff rallied with three straight games to even the score. Pegula then broke and held to lead 5-3, but was broken while serving for the match. Energized, Gauff won four consecutive games from 3-5 down to secure the set 7-5 and the championship.

In the post-match interview, Gauff said, “We know each other's games so well since we often train together and have partnered in doubles many times. So, the challenge was to play shots that she wouldn't expect, to break her anticipation. Before stepping on court, we had full respect for each other. Interestingly, just 10 seconds before the match started, we were chatting about tomorrow’s flights and travel plans. But once the match began, the 'competition mode' switched on immediately.”

Speaking about her friendship with Pegula, Gauff shared, “I've always had great respect for her. When I was 15 and just starting on tour, I had few friends, no one to rely on, and not many were kind to me. She was one of the few players who was always kind to me back then, and she still gives me positive energy now. I’m really grateful to her.”

Gauff’s Path to the Title

First Round: Bye

Second Round: 6-1, 6-0 vs. Moeka Nishimoto (No. 91)

Third Round: 6-3, 6-2 vs. Zhang Shuai (No. 142)

Quarterfinals: 6-3, 6-0 vs. Sigmund (No. 57)

Semifinals: 6-4, 6-3 vs. Paolini (No. 8)

Final: 6-4, 7-5 vs. Pegula (No. 6)

Siniakova/Hunter Capture Women’s Doubles Title

In the earlier women's doubles final, Hunter and Siniakova defeated eighth seeds Danilina and Krunic 6-3, 6-2 in straight sets, winning their third title as partners with an undefeated performance. This marked Hunter’s fifth WTA 1000 doubles title and Siniakova’s sixth at this level.

(Text and Editing: Wang Fei; Photos: Huang Dishen)