Coco Gauff may not have captured a Grand Slam title this season, but she concluded her 2024 campaign in spectacular fashion by winning the WTA Finals in Riyadh. In a grueling three-hour battle, Gauff triumphed over China’s Qinwen Zheng, becoming the youngest player to claim the WTA Finals crown since Maria Sharapova achieved the feat in 2004. This victory not only added another major milestone to Gauff’s burgeoning career but also came with a record-setting $4,805,000 paycheck—the largest payout for a single event in women’s tennis history.
The monumental win has sent waves of admiration through the tennis world. Several experts and fans celebrated her achievement and the astonishing prize money she secured. Serena Williams’ former coach, Rennae Stubbs, addressed the topic in the recent episode of *The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast*, sharing her perspectives on the significance of Gauff’s financial windfall and debunking criticism she faced during the tournament.
Despite her impressive run in Riyadh, Gauff faced backlash following her loss to Barbora Krejčíková in the final group stage match. This defeat led to the elimination of reigning champion Iga Swiatek, prompting speculation from fans and pundits alike. Some accused Gauff of intentionally losing the match to oust Swiatek from the competition. However, Stubbs strongly refuted these claims, calling them “nonsense.” She emphasized that no player would willingly compromise their chances before the semi-finals, especially with so much at stake.
Stubbs delved deeper into the financial motivation, explaining that Gauff would have had every reason to push for victory. “She’s thinking, ‘I wanna win again. I wanna get more money in my pocket,’” Stubbs said. She highlighted the additional financial incentives at the WTA Finals, noting that an undefeated run would have earned Gauff even more. “Winning actually does count to your bank account,” Stubbs added. “Even though we know Coco is going to be set for the rest of her life, there is still a drive to win more.”
With this victory, Gauff’s career prize money has now exceeded $20 million, making her the first tennis player—male or female—born in 2004 or later to reach this milestone. This remarkable achievement reflects both her prowess on the court and her consistent success since breaking into the professional scene. When asked about her staggering prize winnings, Gauff’s reaction in Riyadh was one of genuine surprise and delight. “4.8. Oh gosh,” she exclaimed. “I didn’t know, jeez! I knew it was some money, but I didn’t know it was that much! It means a lot to me… I hope I am one of the highest-paid female tennis players or athletes this year; that will be exciting.”
The WTA Finals prize money in Riyadh set a new standard for women’s tennis, eclipsing Ashleigh Barty’s $4.42 million haul from the 2019 WTA Finals. This year’s event boasted a record $15.25 million prize pool, marking a significant increase of $6.25 million compared to last year’s final in Cancun. By comparison, the winner of the US Open singles event received a $3,600,002 payout this year, highlighting the magnitude of Gauff’s earnings in Riyadh.
Reflecting on her achievement and newfound wealth, Gauff expressed a mix of excitement and humility. “I wanted to win this for myself; I didn’t know it was the prize cheque on this tour,” she said. “I knew there was money, but I never play for this. But that is cool!” Despite her financial success, Gauff remained level-headed about her winnings. When asked about her plans for the prize money, she seemed genuinely unsure. “How will I treat myself? I don’t know. I have bought a house, and I don’t really know what else I want other than that. I am going to a musical festival next week. I am not someone who likes to spend a lot of money, to be honest. I don’t know what I will do with it. That’s a lot of money!”
Gauff’s triumph at the 2024 WTA Finals is a testament to her resilience, talent, and relentless drive. At just 20 years old, she continues to break barriers and set records, captivating fans and inspiring a new generation of tennis players. Her success in Riyadh solidifies her status as one of the sport’s brightest stars and positions her for even greater achievements in the years to come.
The journey to the top has not been without its challenges, but Gauff’s perseverance and commitment to excellence shine through in every match she plays. Whether it’s battling through grueling encounters on the court or handling the scrutiny that comes with being a top-tier athlete, Gauff exemplifies grace, determination, and a passion for her sport. As she moves forward in her career, the world will be watching, eager to see what heights she will reach next. Share your thoughts on Coco Gauff’s incredible run and what her future might hold as she continues to make history.