Confident Gauff reaches US Open 2nd round with straight-set win

Fourth-seeded American tennis star Coco Gauff advanced to the second round of the US Open with a decisive straight-set victory over Turkey's Zeynep Sonmez. Gauff, who triumphed in New York's Grand Slam in 2023, defeated the 53rd-ranked Sonmez 6-3, 6-4 in a hard-fought contest primarily played from the baseline. Gauff expressed her delight at returning to the court, praising the vibrant atmosphere.

Having overcome her service issues last year, Gauff entered the match with renewed confidence after securing a WTA 1000 title in Cincinnati. In the first set, Gauff dominated without facing a break point, with Sonmez struggling to return her serves effectively. Gauff broke early in the second set, but Sonmez responded with powerful ground strokes and strategic net approaches.

Gauff managed to break back at 2-2 and ultimately secured the match at 3-3, crediting her ability to keep her opponent at bay during a grueling rally. Gauff emphasized the importance of challenging her opponent to maintain a high level throughout the match.