Early Victory Sets The Stage

Coco Gauff Makes Impressive Start to US Open Title Defence

Early Victory Sets the Stage

Gauff Cruises Past Gracheva

Coco Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion, began her title defence with an impressive 6-2 6-0 victory over Varvara Gracheva in just 66 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium. This victory marks a strong start to her campaign as she aims to retain her title.

Gauff's Dominant Performance

Despite some early nerves, Gauff quickly gained control of the match. Her powerful forehand and accurate groundstrokes kept Gracheva on the back foot throughout the contest. Gauff's first serve was also on point, winning 75% of first-serve points.

Gracheva, ranked 88th in the world, had her moments but was unable to sustain any significant pressure on Gauff. The American teenager broke Gracheva's serve four times and won 15 of the 20 points played on Gracheva's second serve.

Gauff's Title Defence Hopes

With this victory, Gauff has set herself up for a potential run to the second round, where she could face either Oksana Selekhmeteva or Madison Brengle. If she continues to play at this level, she will be a formidable opponent for anyone.

Gauff's build-up to the final Grand Slam of the season has been less than ideal, with a disappointing performance at the Cincinnati Masters. However, she has shown that she is capable of putting those setbacks behind her and performing on the biggest stage.

Looking Ahead

It will be fascinating to see how Gauff performs when the pressure intensifies in the later rounds of the US Open. She has the talent and the experience to go all the way, but she will need to maintain her focus and play with the same level of intensity that she showed against Gracheva.