World No. 1 Sabalenka wins second straight Miami Open title

Defeats rising star Coco Gauff in three sets to complete 'Sunshine Double'

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:51pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes capturing the intense energy and movement of a high-stakes tennis match between two elite players.Sabalenka's victory over rising star Gauff caps off an impressive 'Sunshine Double' sweep of the Indian Wells and Miami Open titles.Today in Miami

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka defeated American teenager Coco Gauff 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 on Sunday to win her second consecutive Miami Open championship. The victory also gave Sabalenka the 'Sunshine Double' by winning both the Indian Wells Open and Miami Open in the same season.

Why it matters

Sabalenka's dominance at the top of women's tennis continues, as she solidifies her status as the world's best player by defending her Miami title against one of the sport's rising young stars in Coco Gauff. This win also caps off an impressive 'Sunshine Double' for Sabalenka, a feat achieved by only the top players in the game.

The details

In a hard-fought three-set match, Sabalenka overcame a second-set stumble to ultimately prevail over the 18-year-old Gauff. After cruising to a 6-2 win in the first set, Sabalenka dropped the second set 4-6 to even the match. But the Belarusian regained control in the decisive third set, breaking Gauff's serve twice to close out the 6-3 victory and retain her Miami Open crown.

  • The Miami Open final took place on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Aryna Sabalenka

The current world No. 1 women's tennis player, who has now won the Miami Open title in back-to-back years.

Coco Gauff

An 18-year-old American tennis player who has quickly risen up the rankings and reached her first Miami Open final.

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What they’re saying

“Coco is such an incredible player and I knew this would be a tough match. I'm just really proud of how I was able to fight through and get the win today.”

— Aryna Sabalenka, World No. 1 tennis player

What’s next

Sabalenka will look to continue her dominant run at the upcoming clay court season, starting with the French Open in late May. Gauff will aim to use this finals appearance as a springboard to break through and win her first Grand Slam title in the near future.

The takeaway

Aryna Sabalenka's victory over rising star Coco Gauff in the Miami Open final underscores her status as the clear No. 1 player in women's tennis at the moment. The 'Sunshine Double' achievement also cements Sabalenka's place among the game's all-time greats.