Gauff Overcomes Badosa to Reach U.S. Open Third Round

Coco Gauff defeated Paula Badosa 6-4, 7-6(5) on Thursday to reach the third round of the U.S. Open and keep her hopes of winning a second title at Flushing Meadows alive.

The World No. 4 faced a difficult test against Badosa, who entered the contest ranked 87th but had won their previous two meetings. The Spaniard beat Gauff in straight sets at last year’s Australian Open and also defeated her during the grass-court tournament in Berlin this summer.

Playing on a hot evening at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Gauff received strong support from the home crowd as both players exchanged powerful baseline shots early in the match.

Badosa created the first serious threat by forcing Gauff to save two break points. However, the American responded with a crucial break after a costly forehand mistake from her opponent. Gauff then held her advantage to take the opening set.

The second set was even more competitive. Both players broke serve twice before the match went into a tiebreak. Badosa raised her level as she searched for a comeback, but Gauff held her nerve. The American secured victory when Badosa sent a shot long, sparking a huge celebration from the crowd.

“Paula is a tough player. I feel like ‌I had the lead but there wasn’t too much I did wrong. She stepped it up. I’m really happy to be through today,” Gauff said.

She added: “I saw ⁠the draw. Definitely not someone you want to play in the 2nd ⁠round. Former number two in the world. Great competitor. I think I need matches like this to build ‌my confidence. I’m happy with how I managed today. There was a bit of nerves.”

Gauff will next meet fellow Spaniard Cristina Bucsa in the third round.

Will Gauff continue her strong run and lift another U.S. Open title?