Coco Gauff advanced to the semifinals of the US Open after saving two match points against Mirra Andreeva in a dramatic quarterfinal encounter. The fourth-seeded American faced a tough start, losing the first set 6-2 before regrouping to win the second in a tiebreak. Gauff was able to overcome early struggles and ultimately claimed victory with a 6-2 third set after a tense second set.
She had 42 unforced errors in the match, many of them in the first two sets, but managed to regain control in the third, according to CBS Sports. Gauff’s performance was a sharp contrast to her early play, which had been defensive and subdued, according to a report from the BBC. Andreeva had taken the opening set with ease, winning the first seven points and finishing the first set in just 26 minutes, ESPN reported.
After a slow start, Gauff began to find her rhythm and took control of the match in the third set. Andreeva’s confidence wavered in the third set, missing key shots and tossing rackets to the ground during changeovers. Gauff was able to capitalize on Andreeva's mistakes and maintained a strong lead in the third set, eventually sealing the match.
She will now face second-seeded Elena Rybakina in the semifinals after Rybakina defeated Zheng Qinwen earlier Wednesday. Gauff’s win marks her return to the semifinals of a Grand Slam, after previously winning the US Open in 2023. This is the first time since 1975 that all top four seeds in the women's draw have made it to the semifinals of the US Open.
The match was not without its flaws, as Gauff committed 12 double faults in total, a significant increase from her earlier tournament performance. Gauff’s ability to recover under pressure was on full display, especially when she saved two match points in the second set. Former British tennis star Annabel Croft praised Gauff’s resilience and ability to rise in crucial moments.
Croft noted that Gauff was unrecognizable from her early performance, which had been defensive and lacking in confidence. Gauff’s comeback in the second set was pivotal, as she took a 5-3 lead in the tiebreak before Andreeva won three straight points to earn a match point. The match showcased the depth of talent at the US Open, with several top players making their way to the semifinals.
Gauff’s performance was a reminder of her consistent ability to perform under pressure and stay competitive in high-stakes matches. In the other semifinal, No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka will face No. 3 Jessica Pegula on Thursday. Gauff’s journey to the semifinals was not without challenges, but her mental strength and tactical adjustments helped secure a place in the next round.
She will now look to build on this momentum as she prepares for a tough match against Elena Rybakina.