Candi Gauff hails daughter Coco’s fighting spirit after electrifying 3-hour battle to storm into Italian Open finals

Tennis star Coco Gauff has defeated Zheng Qinwen to storm into the Italian Open 2025 final. The American stalwart defeated the Chinese opponent with a scoreline of 7-6 (3), 4-6, and 7-6 (4) in 3 hours and 32 minutes of the game in a semi-final blockbuster clash. This game marks the longest match of Gauff's career.

Meanwhile, Coco Gauff's mother, Candi, was seen hailing her daughter as a 'warrior' after she played the longest game of her career. Candi Gauff took to Instagram Story and shared a video originally posted by WTA's official Instagram account. This video showcased the American star's breathtaking and powerful shots that allowed her to clinch the win against her Chinese rival.

Meanwhile, Coco Gauff has a golden chance to grab the first title of this year. She has made it to the finals of the Mutua Madrid Open but suffered a defeat against eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka. Gauff can dominate against Jessica Pegula when the two WTA stars will be aiming to win the title here.

Also Read: Coco Gauff voices frustration to Italian Open organizers after Alexander Zverev highlights dangerous court conditions

Gauff's mother talks about teaching life lessons to her daughter

Meanwhile, Gauff's mother, Candi, has also talked about raising her daughter with the right values in the Mutua Madrid Open 2025. In one of the interviews, Gauff's mother was seen talking about the life lessons she had shared with her daughter as she was growing up.

Coco Gauff was always seen hailing her mother, Candi, as one of the most inspiring and influential figures in her life. The world number three was seen naming her mom when asked about the women she got inspired by. This remark came during the Indian Wells 2025 second-round victory.

"Just making sure that you understand morals, values, and have good character and be a good person first, and then your tennis. A lot of times, people focus more on your tennis and think that’s your avenue out, but no, you have to be a good person first," Candi said.