Gauff begins US Open title defense with dominant win over Gracheva

Coco Gauff began her US Open title defense with a victory over Varvara Gracheva, winning 6-2, 6-0 to advance to the second round. The American faced issues with her serve, committing 10 double faults, but capitalized on the French player’s inconsistency with her own serve.

In the first set, Gauff (No. 3) started with doubts in her service, facing three break points in her first service games. However, she managed to pull through and then secured a break on her first opportunity to take the lead.

The American had 7 aces and 5 double faults but managed to maintain the advantage, and although she faced several break points, she prevailed in the important moments. The second break came in the 7th game, and she eventually closed out the set 6-2.

In the second set, with increased confidence in her service, Gauff had a 76% first-serve percentage, winning 69% of those points. On the other hand, the French player had a 58% first-serve percentage and won only 40% of those points, along with just 18% on her second serve.

Gauff’s dominance was absolute after securing a break in the first game. From there, Gracheva’s level dropped, and unforced errors became abundant on her side. The world No. 3 secured a convincing bagel in the second set after taking three consecutive breaks.

Gracheva ended with a total of 5 winners and 24 unforced errors, compared to Gauff’s 16 winners and 21 unforced errors. In the second round, Gauff will face the winner of the match between Tatjana Maria (No. 99) and qualifier Solana Sierra (No. 158).