Svitolina wins her third Italian Open title after beating Gauff in Rome

Elina Svitolina stunned Coco Gauff by winning the Italian Open title after a hard-fought 6-4, 6-7 (3-7), 6-2 victory in Saturday’s final.

The win marks Svitolina’s third Italian Open crown and the 20th title of her professional career, completing an impressive return to the highest level of women’s tennis.

Speaking after the win, the Ukrainian admitted the moment was emotional as she reflected on her previous success in Rome.

“It’s very hard to believe that it’s been eight years since I had this trophy here and I’m very, very, very happy, of course, with the two weeks here,” she said.

Svitolina also revealed a conversation with her coach about reaching a milestone before the end of her career.

“I told my coach that it would be good before I finished my career to have a round number. Then he told me that I hope to achieve it this year. So I am very, very happy.”

Despite the loss, Gauff praised her opponent after another intense encounter between the pair.

“Another tough battle between us, I’m on the other side but I hope one of these days I can get over that.”

The American also congratulated Svitolina and her team on their impressive run to the title.

“You had an incredible tournament, with many long matches against great players, so congratulations to you and your team.”

Also read: Sinner advances to Italian Open quarterfinals with 26th consecutive victory

Gauff later admitted that he failed to make the most of key moments during the final.

“Today’s game is definitely the one I learned from,” he said.

“I gave myself a lot of opportunities and I didn’t really take advantage of them.

“I played too passive at certain times.

“Just a learning experience for next time.”

Both players will now focus their attention on the next French Open, scheduled to take place from May 24 to June 7, 2026.