Former world number one
Chris Evert has praised America’s
Coco Gauff after her impressive outing in the
French Open. The second Grand
Slam of the year is moving towards conclusion as the semifinal lineup in both
men’s and women’s categories has been completed.
In the women’s singles category, one player will be America's Gauff. The reigning world number two defeated this year’s Australian Open champion, fellow countrywoman Madison Keys, in the quarterfinals with a score of 6-7, 6-4, 6-1. This will be Gauff’s second consecutive appearance in the semifinal
at Roland Garros and the fourth consecutive she has managed to play in the
quarterfinal or beyond in the mega-event.
Former world number one Evert spoke to
TNT Sports, where
she praised the attitude of Gauff in the contest. The 18-time Grand Slam winner
stated that what impressed her the most about the Atalanta-born is her attitude, as she never ‘quits’. Evert stated that what would be frightening for the remaining
players in the competition is the fact that the 21-year-old managed to secure a
spot in the semifinal of the competition despite not playing her best tennis.
"She’s a fighter," said Evert. "She’s
known to be a fighter. Ever since she was 15, she’s played professional tennis
and got herself out of holes. She’s as good as anybody, and she never quits.
She’s got a good heart out there. Didn’t play her best, and had to deal with
Madison’s big forehand that gave her trouble, but in the end, she came through
in the third set and played almost a flawless set. She looked so happy and
relieved at the same time. It was a very nervy match. Both players couldn't
find their game in the first and second sets. They were gutsy, they were
fighters, but in the third set, Coco found it. Madi, I’m sure, is disappointed
in her play. She had her chances for sure, but it was Gauff who was mentally
toughest."