Gauff openly calls China her lucky land, joking after winning Wuhan Open that she hopes to return to the Forbidden City next year to fulfill a vow.

In the final of the Wuhan Open, American tennis sensation Gauff secured the championship, which is her second WTA 1000 title in China since winning the China Open last year.

Having achieved remarkable results repeatedly in China, the young athlete did not hide her special feelings for this “lucky land” after the match, even joking about returning to the Forbidden City next year to fulfill her vow.

“Indeed, I feel that China is a very fortunate place for me,” Gauff said at the opening of the post-match press conference, revealing her deep connection with China.

This American young talent has consistently impressed in China over recent years: last year's China Open champion, a semifinalist at the Wuhan Open; and this year, she went further by reaching the semifinals at the China Open again and lifting the trophy at the Wuhan Open.

“This result is the exact opposite of last year,” Gauff smiled as she compared the two years’ performances, her tone filled with joy. She especially mentioned how the support from Chinese fans made her feel very warm: “I am very grateful to the Chinese fans for cheering me on, which makes me feel very relaxed here.”

When asked about her special feelings competing in China, Gauff shared an interesting detail: “Maybe I will visit the Forbidden City again next year, so perhaps that will fulfill my vow.” Her words brought knowing laughter from the audience.

Gauff’s connection with the Forbidden City dates back to last year. Before the China Open started, Gauff and Alcaraz toured Beijing’s Forbidden City and even took a photo together there. Ultimately, both of them claimed the men’s and women’s singles titles. Many netizens joked that this was good fortune from the Forbidden City, calling it the “Forbidden City rule”: players who visit the Forbidden City end up winning the championship. Although Ostapenko broke this rule this year, Gauff’s magical journey remains a popular topic among fans.

Gauff emphasized the significance of the timing of her matches in China: “This timing is also great because near the end of the season, you can finish very well, which is especially nice.” As a major Asian event on the WTA Tour, the China season indeed provides many players with a perfect conclusion to their yearly performance.

It is worth noting that Gauff’s “vow fulfillment” comment quickly sparked lively discussions on social media.

“Gauff is treating the Forbidden City like a wishing well! But we welcome her back next year; our Forbidden City is indeed very effective!” joked a Chinese netizen.

Another commenter said, “From Pegula’s milk tea to Gauff’s Forbidden City, it seems Chinese culture and landmarks have become favorites among WTA players!”

Some fans noticed, “Gauff looks especially relaxed when playing in China, and that confident look in her eyes after each shot shows how much she enjoys competing here.” Some American fans also left comments on social platforms: “Coco’s connection with China is truly beautiful; the power of sports is to transcend borders and create friendships like this.”

In response, a sports psychology expert analyzed: “Gauff’s experience illustrates how an athlete’s psychological identification with their competition environment is crucial for performance. When she considers a place lucky, such positive mental cues can indeed enhance her competitive state. Also, her active integration into local culture helps her gain a home-court advantage even when playing away.”

From winning the China Open last year to claiming the Wuhan Open title this year, Gauff’s consistent performance on Chinese courts makes people look forward to more brilliance from her in the future. As she said, the support from China helps her feel relaxed, and such a mental state is vital for top athletes’ performance under pressure.

With Gauff’s vow to return to the Forbidden City next year, Chinese fans eagerly anticipate this friendly and talented player coming back year after year to the “lucky land” she cherishes, continuing to write a special chapter in her tennis journey with China.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)