Coco Gauff and Qinwen Zheng are set to face each other on Saturday in what can be called a truly phenomenal final. So far, the two young tennis stars have performed at the highest level in the WTA Finals. While Coco registered a sensational win over world no.1 Aryna Sabalenka in the SF, Zheng took the better of Barbora Krejcikova. Both seem to be potential winners given their current form in the event. Furthermore, there’s an interesting fact about Coco and Qinwen that will make their big clash even more exciting, according to a former WTA pro’s startling revelation.

Serena Williams’ ex-coach former Australian player Rennae Stubbs took to her X account ahead of the final in Riyadh. Sharing an intriguing observation, she revealed that there’s one common factor between Coco and Qiwen – coach Pere Riba. “#Gauff #Zheng is going to be fun. Also the interesting variable of Pera Riba former Coco coach in the mix.  @WTA”, wrote Stubbs.

For those unaware, Qinwen Zheng’s current coach Pere Riba was previously with Coco Gauff. Riba joined Gauff back in June 2023, ahead of the Eastbourne International event. Under Pere’s short yet effective tutelage, Coco went on to clinch the Citi Open in Washington and then the US Open in September 2023. Notably, she also achieved her career-best ranking of No.3 under under Riba. However, the two eventually parted ways last November. “Unfortunately it wasn’t my decision, but we had to end the partnership. I had a great time with him and I wish him the best in this next chapter,” said Gauff on Pere, as reported by Sky Sports on November 1st, 2023.

After splitting from Coco, Riba joined Qinwen Zheng ahead of 2024 season. But not many might be aware of the fact that the two were previously associated as well. Riba initially became Qinwen’s trainer three years ago, in 2021. They parted ways last year after the French Open where Zheng couldn’t advance past second round.

Surprisingly, Qinwen decided to reunite with Riba ahead of 2024’s season; they came back together in December 2023. Since then, China’s top-ranked tennis sensation has delivered phenomenal performances. Under his tutelage, Qinwen reached the final of the Australian Open in January. She then went on to create history in Paris and won the Gold medal for her country. Now, she’s into the final of the WTA Finals on her tournament debut. But will she emerge victorious against Coco Gauff?

Coco Gauff vs Qinweng Zheng: Who will win the WTA Finals trophy?

When the two faced each other for the first time, it was during this year’s Italian Open. In the event’s QF round, the American star managed to supress the Chinese phenom. After going through an intense first set, Coco eventually won the fight with a score of 7-6, 6-1. In tennis, however, things can always turn at any moment.

Qinwen is no slouch when it comes to winning championship battles. That’s something Coco will have to keep in mind. Before the WTA Finals, Zheng played the Japan Open where she was the title winner. On the other hand, Gauff’s last appearance was in the Wuhan Open where she failed to go past the SF tripped against Aryna Sabalenka.

As this moment, the world no.7 seems to be having an edge over no.3 thanks to her traditional style comprising of full-swinging shots. Her main intent always remains on attacking as much as possible and that might pose a trouble. Coco, on the other hand – despite her recent victories, might not be as stable as her Chinese counterpart due to her recent changes in serving and forehand not working as expected. All things considered, she would like to utilize the massive opportunity today in order to wrap up her season on a high note. Do you think Gauff will lift the trophy in Riyadh or Qinwen will pull off an incredible win?