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Coco Gauff On Beating Ons Jabeur: "It Doesn't Feel Like a Win"

Coco Gauff was disappointed that Ons Jabeur retired during their match on Saturday.
Pat Benson|
Coco Gauff was disappointed Ons Jabeur had to retire during their match.
Coco Gauff was disappointed Ons Jabeur had to retire during their match. | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Grass court season usually is one of the most exciting times of the tennis calendar. However, this year has been marred by injuries, illnesses, and scheduling conflicts.

Saturday has already gotten off to a rough start as Ons Jabeur retired due to illness during her match against Coco Gauff during the quarterfinals of the Berlin Ladies Open (presented by ecotrans).

Gauff and Jabeur battled for one 68-minute set, with Gauff winning 7-6(9). However, after dropping the opening set, Jabeur was assessed by the trainer and doctor and retired due to illness.

After the shortened match Gauff said she was happy with the way she played but empathized with her opponent and friend.

"It doesn't feel like a win. Especially because we had such a great first set. I wish Ons the best. I think it's something that's just gonna happen today and she'll feel better tomorrow. I think she'll be strong at Wimbledon," said Gauff.

Gauff is not wrong about Jabeur being strong at Wimbledon. The 29-year-old has made it to the Wimbledon finals in the last two years. More recently, she lost to Gauff in the quarterfinals of the French Open.

Jabeur has already said she will not play in the 2024 Summer Olympics. The switch from clay to grass to clay could cause issues for her knee. Hopefully, we see a healthy Jabeur at Wimbledon in less than two weeks.

Meanwhile, Gauff will face Jessica Pegula in the semifinals tomorrow. Tennis fans can follow Sports Illustrated's Serve on SI for all the most important news from the sport.

Further Reading: Coco Gauff will lead Team USA Tennis at 2024 Summer Olympics.

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Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers professional tennis for Serve on Sports Illustrated, reporting on ATP and WTA events worldwide. From Challenger tournaments to Grand Slams, he brings readers in-depth coverage, daily recaps, and exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in the sport. With a decade of experience in sports journalism, Pat is recognized as a trusted voice in tennis media. You can contact him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.

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