Coco Gauff Advances to U.S. Open Quarterfinals
Last time Coco Gauff reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open, she ended up winning it all. This year, she continues her strong performance, having not dropped a single set, as she secured her spot in the final eight by defeating fellow American Iva Jovic 6-1, 6-4 on Monday night at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
After struggling in her previous two U.S. Open appearances, where she was eliminated in the fourth round, Gauff is set to face No. 5 seed Mirra Andreeva next.
Gauff shared her thoughts on the significance of reaching the quarterfinals: “I think I just welcome it. A quarterfinal match feels less daunting now. I’m used to finding myself in such situations often. I feel fortunate to compete here. I hope to have many more opportunities like this, which is why it’s important to appreciate the moment.”
She added, “I know many would love to be in a Grand Slam quarterfinal. However, I’ve put myself in these positions enough times that it feels familiar.”
At just 22 years old, Gauff has become the youngest American woman to reach three Grand Slam quarterfinals in a single year since Serena Williams in 2003. Remarkably, since 2000, only two players—Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova—have achieved more Grand Slam quarterfinals before age 23 than Gauff, who is tied with Kim Clijsters at 12.
Her success at the U.S. Open was anticipated ever since she won her first Grand Slam title in Queens three years ago. Gauff triumphed over Jovic in one hour and 33 minutes, extending her winning streak on the WTA Tour to ten matches while also claiming her 19th consecutive set. The last time she lost a set was during the second round in Cincinnati, shortly before heading to New York.
Despite a shaky start—being broken in the first game—Gauff quickly rebounded to dominate the first set, closing it out in just under 35 minutes with a remarkable 90 percent success rate on her returns. The second set was more competitive, with Jovic battling through multiple break points. The match intensified when a thrilling 23-shot rally ended in Gauff’s favor during a crucial moment, energizing the crowd.
Reflecting on her current confidence level, Gauff stated, “I think my nervous system is adapting. I know I can rely on various strategies to win points, which gives me comfort. If my first plan isn’t working, I have others ready to go. That’s reassuring, and even if those don’t pan out, I walk off knowing I gave it my all.”
She concluded, “The biggest shift in my game is to play without regrets. Embracing that mindset has led to both more enjoyment and success on the court.”
