In a commanding performance at the Cincinnati Open, Coco Gauff secured a significant WTA 1000 victory that positions her just behind tennis legend Martina Hingis in historic opening match wins. The 19-year-old American defeated Wang Xinyu decisively, 6-3, 6-2, marking a major milestone in her burgeoning career as she returns to a tournament where she previously earned the title in 2023.
Overcoming Early Struggles to Advance Confidently
Gauff’s journey at Cincinnati this year contrasted sharply with her surprising first-round loss last season to Yulia Putintseva. After an early exit at the Canadian Open, losing to eventual champion Victoria Mboko, she entered the tournament with renewed focus and determination. Despite a challenging start marked by eight double faults in her opening service games, Gauff displayed remarkable mental resilience, adapting her game as the match progressed to secure her spot in the third round.
It feels great to be back in Cincinnati,
Gauff shared, soaking in the supportive environment.
Winning here two years ago set me up for an incredible two weeks in New York, leading to my US Open victory. This tournament means a lot to me.
—Coco Gauff
She explained her mid-match adjustments, saying,
I was able to let go of the issue as the contest went on,
and added,
I just trusted myself and the hard work we’ve put in during practice.
—Coco Gauff
Adapting and Shifting Focus to Secure the Win
After the difficult start, Gauff eliminated further errors, demonstrating her capability to manage pressure and refocus as needed. Her mentality shift was crucial in dominating the second set without further fault.
In the second set, I shifted my mindset, focusing on the future rather than the past,
she noted.
I’m thrilled to have turned that around.
—Coco Gauff
Approaching a Historic Threshold in WTA 1000 Opens
This victory marked Gauff’s 36th win in opening matches at WTA 1000 tournaments, improving her overall record to 36-8. Since the WTA 1000 format began in 1990, only Martina Hingis has exceeded this total among players under 22, with 46 opening match wins. As Gauff nears her 22nd birthday on March 13, 2024, she faces the opportunity to surpass Hingis’ record through upcoming tournaments throughout the season.
Next Challenge Awaits With a Formidable Opponent
Looking ahead, Gauff is set to face 32nd seed Dayana Yastremska, the player who recently stunned her at Wimbledon with a straight-set victory. This rematch promises to be a tense and significant moment as Gauff aims to demonstrate improvement and resilience against a recent rival. The road to extending her winning streak and setting new records continues to be demanding but full of promise.
Gauff’s Growing Legacy in Women’s Tennis
Coco Gauff’s latest Cincinnati victory reinforces her status as a rising star determined to leave a lasting mark in women’s tennis. Her blend of skill, mental toughness, and passion signals that she will be a major contender in the WTA circuit for years to come. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as she pushes to etch her name even deeper beside legends like Martina Hingis.