Coco Gauff's remarkable comeback, overcoming early setback to secure victory over Mertens at US Open
WTASaturday, 02 September 2023 at 11:51
Coco Gauff
went from strength to strength to defeat Elise Mertens and advance to the
fourth round of the US Open by 3-6, 6-3, 6-0.
The World
No. 6 started the tournament with a controversial victory over Laura Siegemund,
winning 4-6, 6-2, 6-4. In a rare sight, Gauff engaged in a heated argument with
the chair umpire due to the delays caused by her German opponent in receiving
serves.
In the
second round, she faced a tough challenge but managed to defeat Mirra Andreeva
6-3, 6-2, setting up a meeting with the 32nd seed, Elise Mertens. Mertens had
previously won against Mirjam Bjorklund (3-6, 6-3, 7-6) and local player
Danielle Collins (3-6, 7-6, 6-1).
Mertens and
Gauff had clashed twice before, both times with victories for the American,
although not on hard courts (their previous matches were on clay and grass).
In the
first set, the Belgian saved the first two break points in the sixth game and
managed to keep the score level at 3-3. However, Gauff paid dearly for her
errors and lost her service for the first time with a double fault.
World No.
32 Mertens held her service to take a 5-3 lead and once again secured a break
to win the first set 6-3, frustrating Gauff with her solid exchanges. Gauff had
11 unforced errors and 9 winners in the set, while Mertens hit 11 winners and 8
unforced errors.
In the
second set, Mertens started strong with her service and pressed for a break in
the second game, but Gauff saved five break points and kept the score level. A
break each way maintained an even match until 3-3. Gauff regained her
confidence to secure two breaks, winning the last four games of the set.
The third
set was a complete domination by the American, as she won five games in a row
to close out the match with a final score of 3-6, 6-3, 6-0.
In the
fourth round, Gauff will face former world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki, who
continues her impressive comeback from retirement and defeated Jennifer Brady
in the third round.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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