A major surprise unfolded at the US Open as Coco Gauff, last year’s champion, lost her chance to defend her title in the fourth round. The American tennis star was defeated by her compatriot Emma Navarro, with a score of 3-6, 6-4, 3-6, after a match filled with unforced errors. This early exit has serious consequences for Gauff, impacting her rankings and confidence.
Gauff, who has been seen as the future of American tennis, had high expectations to build on her success and challenge for the top spot in the WTA rankings. Despite reaching two Grand Slam semifinals this season—in Melbourne and Paris—her performance hasn’t quite lived up to the hype. She managed to win only one title this year, in Auckland. However, Navarro has become a significant obstacle for Gauff, defeating her in two important matches this year.
The two players had faced off twice before in their professional careers. Gauff won their first encounter in Auckland, dominating Navarro 6-3, 6-1. But Navarro turned the tables in the fourth round of Wimbledon, where she won 6-4, 6-3. Navarro’s aggressive play and mental toughness proved too much for the younger Gauff, who struggled in the long rallies.
In their latest showdown at the US Open, Navarro once again outplayed Gauff. Navarro started strong, making few unforced errors, while Gauff seemed overwhelmed by the pressure of defending her title in front of the American crowd. Gauff showed signs of frustration and helplessness, committing five double faults in the first set alone, which contributed to her 3-6 loss in the opening set.
Although Gauff managed to fight back in the second set, winning 6-4, she couldn’t maintain the momentum. In the deciding third set, Gauff’s game fell apart. She landed only 37% of her first serves and committed 11 double faults, making it nearly impossible for her to win.
Ultimately, Navarro triumphed over Gauff for the second time in a Grand Slam tournament this year. As a result, Gauff is expected to drop from third to sixth in the WTA rankings, losing her place in the top five.
Navarro will now face Paula Badosa in the quarterfinals.
