Coco Gauff began her US Open title defense with an emphatic victory over Varvara Gracheva. The world No. 3 breezed through the match with a 6-2, 6-0 win, needing just one hour and six minutes to secure her place in the second round.
A Shift in Perspective
Gauff has faced challenges in the second half of the season, including a recent loss in her first match at the Cincinnati Open, where she was the defending champion. Despite these setbacks, Gauff’s mindset has undergone a significant change.
She credits this shift to a comment she received on TikTok. A follower’s words resonated with her, saying, “You’ve won in life, literally and figuratively, and there’s no point in piling pressure on yourself on a victory lap.”
Embracing the Journey
With this new perspective, Gauff is approaching the US Open with a fresh attitude. She explained, “If you defend something, that means you won something. If you did it, that means you can do it again. So whether I do it again this year or not, I am going to do it again, whether it’s 2024 or not—I will do it again.”
This mindset shift has allowed Gauff to enjoy the tournament, even as she acknowledges the pressure that comes with being the defending champion.
A Confident Start
On Monday, Gauff’s performance on the court reflected her renewed confidence. She played with a sense of ease, enjoying the match and delivering some of her best tennis in recent weeks. “I enjoyed it today,” Gauff said. “Even if it was tighter, these are the moments you live for. I am just happy to be back on this court and playing like I did.”
Looking Ahead
Gauff is set to face Tatjana Maria in the second round, continuing her quest to defend her US Open title. Meanwhile, fellow American Taylor Fritz also advanced, defeating Argentina’s Camilo Ugo Carabelli 7-5, 6-1, 6-2. Fritz, who reached the quarterfinals of the US Open last year, will be looking to build on his career-best performance in New York.
Conclusion
Coco Gauff’s journey at this year’s US Open is not just about defending her title, but also about embracing a new perspective. With her recent victory and a fresh outlook, she is poised to make a strong run in the tournament.(747Live)
FAQs
1. What inspired Coco Gauff’s change in perspective?
A follower’s comment on TikTok helped Gauff see her journey differently, reminding her that she has already won in life.
2. How did Gauff perform in her first match at the US Open?
Gauff won her match against Varvara Gracheva 6-2, 6-0 in just one hour and six minutes.
3. Who will Gauff face in the second round?
Gauff will play against Tatjana Maria in the second round.
4. How has Gauff dealt with the pressure of being the defending champion?
Gauff has embraced the pressure and is focusing on enjoying the tournament.
5. How did Taylor Fritz perform in his US Open match?
Taylor Fritz defeated Camilo Ugo Carabelli 7-5, 6-1, 6-2 to advance to the next round.
