New Delhi, Nov. 4 -- In a thrilling match at the WTA Finals, defending champion Coco Gauff outplayed Jasmine Paolini 6-3, 6-2 on Tuesday. This commanding straight-sets win preserved the 21-year-old American's chances of reaching the semifinals in the elite year-end tournament.

Coco Gauff, seeded No. 3, entered the match facing potential elimination from the Stefanie Graf Group. After dropping her opener in three sets to Jessica Pegula, she needed a strong showing against No. 8 seed Jasmine Paolini. The young star delivered, showcasing the composure that has defined her rise.

Her coach, Jean-Cristophe Faurel, who has guided Gauff on and off for six years, praised her big-match mentality before the tournament. "She's amazing in the abilit...