BREAKING: Sabalenka Accuses Coco Gauff of Using Third Device During Final, VAR Intervention Sparks Controversy
In a stunning post-match revelation that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, Belarusian star Aryna Sabalenka has accused American sensation Coco Gauff of using an unauthorized third device during their recent final clash. The accusation came just five minutes after the match ended, prompting an immediate response from tournament officials and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
Sabalenka, visibly emotional but composed, released what she described as “clear video evidence” suggesting Gauff received information through a discreet device during critical moments of the match. “There is no place for unfair tactics in this sport,” Sabalenka stated during a hastily arranged press conference. “I respect Coco as a competitor, but what I saw and what my team captured cannot be ignored.”
The match in question was already being hailed as one of the most intense and strategically complex finals of the season. Gauff’s performance was praised for her precise shot selection and near-perfect anticipation of Sabalenka’s serves — something that, according to Sabalenka’s camp, may not have been purely coincidental.
Within minutes of Sabalenka’s statement, tournament officials initiated a VAR review. The governing body confirmed that it had received footage allegedly showing a small communication device either embedded in Gauff’s wristband or placed discreetly near the player’s bench. The footage is now being analyzed frame-by-frame by an independent committee.
The use of any external communication devices during a match is strictly prohibited under WTA and ITF regulations. If Gauff is found guilty, this could lead to severe consequences, including disqualification, fines, and even suspension.
Gauff, who had not yet spoken to the media at the time of the accusation, was reportedly escorted from the stadium by her team as news of the controversy spread. Sources close to the 21-year-old player say she was “completely blindsided” and “deeply hurt” by the allegations.
Tennis fans across the globe are divided. Social media platforms exploded with heated debates, with hashtags like #GauffGate and #SabalenkaEvidence trending within minutes. While some fans expressed disbelief and stood by Gauff’s integrity, others called for a thorough investigation before jumping to conclusions.
This incident comes at a time when tennis is increasingly embracing technology to improve fairness and transparency. However, it also raises questions about how far athletes and their teams are willing to push the boundaries for victory.
As of this writing, the WTA has not released an official statement but has promised a full investigation. “We take all allegations of misconduct seriously and will follow due process,” a spokesperson said.
Whether this turns out to be a misunderstanding, a technical glitch, or a serious violation of rules, one thing is certain: this controversy will dominate headlines and debates in the tennis world for weeks to come.
More updates to follow as the investigation continues.
