Coco Gauff showcased remarkable resilience on Thursday, July 31, as she fought back from a set down to defeat Veronika Kudermetova in the third round of the 2025 National Bank Open in Montreal. The American player, currently World No. 2, secured a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 6-2 win in a match that spanned two hours and 32 minutes, enhancing her hopes of capturing her first title at the Canadian Open.

Despite some challenges with her serve, Gauff’s persistence carried her through. Her former coach, Rennae Stubbs, who also coached Serena Williams, praised Gauff’s unwavering determination during the contest, highlighting how her refusal to give up often turns matches in her favor.

Challenges and Triumphs Leading Up to the Round of 16

After receiving a first-round bye, Gauff struggled earlier in the tournament against fellow American Danielle Collins. Although she committed a high number of double faults—23 in that second-round match—she still managed a three-set victory. Against Kudermetova, her double faults dropped to 14, but Gauff’s serve remains an area requiring improvement.

Stubbs noted Gauff’s repeated ability to come back after losing the first set, a skill Gauff demonstrated again recently at the 2025 French Open final, where she defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4.

“No matter what is happening. Coco never gives up. Never! It wins her so many matches,” —Rennae Stubbs, Former Coach

As the top seed in this tournament, with Sabalenka absent, Gauff is looking to claim her third WTA 1000 title. Meanwhile, second seed Iga Swiatek has progressed comfortably to the next round and will face Germany’s Eva Lys.

Gauff Reflects on Performance and Areas for Growth After Tough Win

Earlier this year, Gauff won her second Grand Slam singles title at Roland Garros, a milestone that has raised expectations for her performances. However, her recent outings have included early exits in Berlin and Wimbledon, where she did not claim a set in either event. At the Canadian Open, while she has advanced through two rounds, Gauff admits she has yet to fully find her best form, especially concerning her serve.

“The goal of the game is to survive and advance. It’s not my best, but it’s good enough for today. That’s all I can ask for. Mentally, I’m very proud of myself. There are obviously parts of my game I have to work on and one of those is the serve,” —Coco Gauff, Tennis Player

“The fact I’m winning these matches not feeling my best is something to be proud of. I only can look forward to the future when I am feeling my best. Hopefully it’s a bit easier,” —Coco Gauff, Tennis Player

Upcoming Match Against Local Favorite Victoria Mboko

Looking ahead, Gauff will face a tough challenge from Canadian hopeful Victoria Mboko, who is enjoying a breakthrough at this tournament by reaching the fourth round. Mboko’s impressive run includes victories over Kimberly Birrell, Sofia Kenin, and Marie Bouzkova. This matchup will test Gauff’s ability to maintain her composure and energy as she aims to push deeper into the WTA 1000 event.

Significance of Gauff’s Comeback and What Lies Ahead

Coco Gauff’s performance at the Canadian Open illustrates both her fierce competitive spirit and the areas she needs to sharpen, mainly her serve, if she wants to capture the title. As the top seed with Aryna Sabalenka absent, Gauff has a strong opportunity to add another prestigious trophy to her collection. Her comeback over Kudermetova reinforces her status as a tenacious competitor willing to fight through adversity, a trait that bodes well for her future tournaments.

The upcoming matches will offer a clearer picture of Gauff’s form heading into the latter stages of the season, as she prepares for further challenges. Fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see if her Canadian Open comeback signals a return to peak performance.