Sabalenka Completes Sunshine Double with Miami Open Victory

Belarusian star beats Coco Gauff in three sets to defend her title and become just the fifth woman to win both Indian Wells and Miami.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:56pm

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Aryna Sabalenka defeated Coco Gauff in three sets on Saturday to defend her Miami Open title and become just the fifth woman in history to complete the prestigious 'Sunshine Double' by winning both the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments in the same year. The top-ranked Belarusian overcame a spirited comeback from the American teenager to claim the $1.15 million winner's prize and her 24th career title.

Why it matters

Sabalenka's victory cements her status as one of the dominant forces in women's tennis, joining an elite group of players who have achieved the rare Sunshine Double. The match also showcased the growing rivalry between Sabalenka and the rising American star Gauff, who continues to impress despite the loss.

The details

Sabalenka raced through the opening set 6-2, breaking Gauff's serve twice. But the American fought back in the second set, breaking Sabalenka to level the match at one set apiece. In the decisive third set, Sabalenka regained control by breaking Gauff's serve early on and then held her nerve to close out the match 6-3 and defend her title.

  • Sabalenka won the Indian Wells title two weeks ago.
  • The Miami Open final took place on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Aryna Sabalenka

The top-ranked Belarusian tennis player, who has now won 24 career titles including the prestigious Sunshine Double in 2026.

Coco Gauff

The rising American tennis star, who was the crowd favorite in the Miami Open final but fell just short of winning her first career Grand Slam title.

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What they’re saying

“You're a fighter. You also pushed me so hard to be a better player.”

— Aryna Sabalenka

“This wasn't the result we were expecting. And although it sucks to not come out with a bigger trophy today, I had a lot of joy this week. That's something I'm thinking of taking away from this the most.”

— Coco Gauff

What’s next

Sabalenka will look to continue her dominant form as the clay court season approaches, while Gauff will aim to bounce back and challenge for her first Grand Slam title at the upcoming French Open.

The takeaway

Sabalenka's Sunshine Double triumph cements her status as one of the premier players in women's tennis, while Gauff's spirited performance in defeat shows she is closing the gap on the sport's elite. Their burgeoning rivalry promises many more high-stakes matchups in the years to come.