Gauff Beats Paolini to Keep WTA Finals Hopes Alive

The American had lost her opening match two days earlier to third-seeded Jessica Pegula, but her performance was even more impressive against Paolini, whose second singles defeat of the week means she has no chance of advancing to the semifinals.

"I'm really happy with how I played today, definitely a turnaround from my first match," said Gauff, who posted her 10th top-10 win of the season.

Against Pegula on Sunday, Gauff struggled with her serve, committing 17 double faults and winning just 28 percent of points after her second delivery.

 Her performance had already improved significantly in the first set of her second match, as she won 9 of 11 points on her second serve and committed only two double faults.

 The 21-year-old took a 3-0 lead and, despite Paolini's attempts to make a comeback, regained her advantage by winning the first set in 40 minutes.

 The second set was straightforward as Gauff broke serve twice and recorded her second win in five meetings with the Italian player this season.

"I was just trying to play relaxed. I've played a WTA Finals where I lost all three of my matches (in 2022). So I tried to avoid that today," said the two-time Grand Slam champion.

"I thought I served smart. I don't think Jasmine was 100 percent today and I would like to wish her well. Playing singles and doubles here is not easy."

 In other Stefanie Graf Group matches, world number one Aryna Sabalenka faces fifth-seeded Jessica Pegula later today. A straight-sets victory for the top seed would secure her a place in Friday's semifinals.