Gauff, who defeated Sabalenka to win the 2023 US Open, took a 4-2 lead in the second set after an early break as she continued her form from the first set.

But Gauff’s service game suddenly collapsed, allowing the Belarusian world number two to record consecutive breaks as she won four games in a row to take the second set.

Gauff’s service game deteriorated further in the decider and the American’s anger at not being able to complete the match threatened to spill over.

Sabalenka, who has never lost in Wuhan, extended her winning run to seven games in a row by winning the first three games of the third set,

Gauff showed her resilience by winning four of the next five to draw level at 4-4.

But after Sabalenka held serve, Gauff made a double fault on match point to give the former world number one victory.

“Coco is an incredible player,” Sabalenka said.

“We’ve had a lot of tough battles in the past. She is in top form and I knew going into this match that it would be tough and that I would have to work very hard to get the win.

“A few mistakes from her and I felt I probably still have a chance.”