Coco Gauff seized the opportunity to relax during her rest day at the Cincinnati Masters after her Round of 32 opponent, Dayana Yastremska, withdrew due to illness. The World No. 2 moved forward in the tournament without playing and took the chance to attend a Cincinnati Reds baseball game at Great American Ball Park.
Gauff enjoyed her first experience at a Reds game, watching the team’s matchup against the Philadelphia Phillies from the stands behind the batter’s box. She shared her excitement with fans through an Instagram post, showcasing the iconic venue and her support for the Reds.
The Cincinnati Reds welcomed Gauff warmly on social media, creating a memorable moment for the tennis star as she mixed sports fandom with her tournament schedule.
“Hey guys, it’s Coco, and I’m excited to be here supporting the Reds. It’s my first Reds baseball game and I’m having a great time.”
—Coco Gauff
Although baseball is not Gauff’s primary sport, it holds significance in her life. Born and raised in Florida, she has been familiar with baseball, especially through her brother, Codey, who is a promising player committed to Missouri’s college baseball team this fall.
Upcoming Matchup and Tournament Context for Gauff
With Yastremska’s last-minute withdrawal, Gauff automatically progressed to the fourth round of the Cincinnati Open, where she is set to face Italy’s Lucia Bronzetti. Bronzetti overcame Jelena Ostapenko in a three-set battle, winning 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 to reach this stage.
Gauff holds a 2-0 head-to-head record against Bronzetti, giving her confidence ahead of their encounter. Her unexpected day off offers crucial rest as she navigates the physically demanding ATP 1000 events. Earlier in Cincinnati, Gauff claimed a straight-sets victory over China’s Wang Xinyu, 6-3, 6-2.
Currently ranked second in the world and reigning French Open champion, Gauff has displayed resilience through this hardcourt season. Despite a challenging Wimbledon loss to Yastremska, she bounced back during the North American summer swing. Although she was defeated in singles at the National Bank Open by Canada’s Victoria Mboko, Gauff captured the women’s doubles title alongside McCartney Kessler.
Looking Ahead to the US Open and Career Prospects
As a two-time Grand Slam winner, including a title at the US Open two years ago, Gauff aims to build on her recent form in Cincinnati and Toronto. These tournaments serve as vital preparation for the final Grand Slam of the year in New York, where she intends to make a strong impact once again.
The combination of rest and focused training gives Gauff an edge as the season’s pivotal hardcourt events unfold, keeping her in the hunt for another major triumph.