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Gauff's Commanding Performance

Coco Gauff showcased her prowess at the French Open by decisively defeating local favorite Lois Boisson with a score of 6-1, 6-2 on Thursday. This victory propelled her into a highly anticipated final against the top seed, Aryna Sabalenka.

The world number two from the United States maintained her focus amidst a charged atmosphere, swiftly overcoming the French wildcard on Court Philippe Chatrier. This marks Gauff's second appearance in the Roland Garros final, having previously lost to Iga Swiatek in 2022.

Boisson, ranked 361st globally, had previously triumphed over world number three Jessica Pegula and Russia's Mirra Andreeva in earlier rounds, but she struggled to find her rhythm against Gauff.

"Starting strong is always the goal," Gauff remarked. "I recognized the importance of that today. Lois is an exceptional player and has proven herself among the best, particularly on clay. I anticipate more encounters with her in the future."

Sabalenka's Triumph Over Swiatek

Earlier in the day, Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one, overcame four-time champion Iga Swiatek to secure her place in the French Open final. Sabalenka won the match 7-6(1), 4-6, 6-0, ending Swiatek's reign in Paris and halting her impressive 26-match winning streak at the tournament.

The Belarusian's powerful game proved too much for the defending champion, who aimed to become the first woman since 1968 to win four consecutive titles in Paris.

Swiatek had claimed the previous three titles, including her first in 2020. Now, the top seed will face either Lois Boisson, the first wildcard to reach this stage in the Open Era, or Coco Gauff in the final showdown on Saturday.

"It feels amazing, but I know the job isn't finished yet. I'm just excited about this win and the atmosphere here," Sabalenka expressed.

"Lois is a formidable opponent, especially on clay and at Roland Garros. It was a challenging match, but I managed to pull through." Sabalenka, in her second French Open semi-final, quickly established a 3-0 lead, breaking Swiatek's serve twice. She consistently pressured her opponent, with Swiatek winning only 35% of her points on her second serve.

Swiatek, who faced a one-month doping ban last year and entered the tournament without a title this season, had reached the semi-finals while dropping just one set in five matches. However, she appeared out of sorts during this match.

Celebrating Victory Aryna Sabalenka celebrates her victory against Iga Swiatek.

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