Coco Gauff's Auckland Performance

Coco Gauff Auckland Performance — ***_{Image Credit : Daily Hunt}***

Coco Gauff, the U.S. Open champion, continued her stellar start to the year with a commanding victory over Czech teenager Barbara Fruhvirtova at the Auckland Tennis Classic. Gauff faced a tough challenge from the hard-hitting 16-year-old Fruhvirtova, who displayed remarkable power off both hands, breaking Gauff’s serve in the third game of the first set. However, Gauff swiftly responded, breaking back in a 14-point game to level the set at 2-2.

Despite Fruhvirtova’s aggressive play, Gauff took control, breaking again to lead 4-2. She served for the first set at 5-3, saving a break point before securing the set in 40 minutes. Gauff faced more high top-spin from Fruhvirtova in the second set but remained composed, breaking early and securing additional breaks in the third and fifth games. Confidently holding her serve, Gauff finished the set with a powerful 190 kph (118 mph) ace.

While serving for the match at 5-0 in the second set, Gauff had to fend off two break points but ultimately sealed the victory with her sixth ace. Reflecting on the match, Gauff acknowledged Fruhvirtova’s strong performance and her own ability to elevate her game. Gauff praised Fruhvirtova, stating they had known each other since they were 10 years old, having trained together in France. Gauff expressed her belief that Fruhvirtova has a promising future in professional tennis.

In the quarterfinals, Gauff is set to face eighth-seeded Varvara Gracheva of France, who secured a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Lulu Sun of Switzerland. Meanwhile, seventh-seeded Petra Martic delivered a dominant performance, winning 6-2, 6-2 against Yuan Yue of China. Martic, known for her powerful serves, will meet American Emma Navarro in the quarterfinal matchup.

Gauff remains a formidable force in the tournament, showcasing her skills and determination as she aims to defend her title at the Auckland Tennis Classic. The young tennis sensation expressed satisfaction with her performance, emphasizing improvements in her serving and returns.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Daily Hunt}