In one of the standout matches of the 2026 season, Elina Svitolina delivered a remarkable performance to defeat Coco Gauff in a dramatic semifinal of the Dubai Tennis Championships on Friday, 20 February 2026.
Svitolina and Gauff treated fans to a highly competitive battle lasting over three hours, with both players showcasing resilience, power and high-quality tennis throughout. The first set saw Svitolina grab an early advantage, closing it out 6-4 with aggressive returning and controlled baseline play. Gauff refused to go quietly, responding in the second set with a marathon tiebreak that she ultimately edged 7-6(13), turning the momentum and forcing a deciding third set.
In the final set, Svitolina’s experience and tactical nous came to the fore. She capitalised on key opportunities, breaking serve at pivotal moments and maintaining her focus under pressure. The Ukrainian sealed the match 6-4 in the third set to complete a hard-earned 6-4, 6-7(13), 6-4 victory — a win that sent waves through the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.
With the victory, Svitolina advanced to the Dubai final, marking her first appearance in a WTA 1000 title match since 2018 — a major milestone in her comeback. Her opponent in the championship match will be Jessica Pegula, who fought back from a set down to beat Amanda Anisimova in the other semifinal and earn her place in the final.
The Svitolina–Pegula final promises to be an enthralling showdown as two of the WTA’s most consistent performers this season meet for the Dubai title. Svitolina’s grit and determination on Friday night showed she’s more than capable of lifting the trophy, while Pegula’s resilience sets up what should be an exciting championship match in the UAE.
