Coco Gauff is into the US Open third round, in what was a far more comprehensive win than her first-round struggle.
Facing Donna Vekic, there were fears that the big-hitting Croatian might be able to use her power to exploit some of the youngster’s glaring weaknesses.
And whilst she did on occasion, the indomitable spirit and relentless work ethic of the top-ranked American meant her place in the next round was never really under threat.
That being said, there were two key flashpoints, both during and after the match, which exhibited just how much Coco Gauff was struggling – not with the match, but with the occasion as a whole.
She has since explained why she got so emotional.
Coco Gauff explains why she cried mid-match and in her on-court interview at US Open
Sitting in the US Open’s media room, just hours after she had wiped away tears whilst speaking on Arthur Ashe, many were curious to learn the reasons behind such emotion.
After all, it was visible even before that outpouring, as she sat nearly shaking mid-match.
One reporter questioned whether it was anxiety-related, to which Gauff replied: “Yeah, it was just nerves and just pressure, honestly.
“I’m someone that, like, can thrive on that, and, yeah, there’s been a lot on me this tournament, more than usual, which I expected coming in.
“So, yeah, like, it’s just basically, what you saw out there was what it was, and I was able to reset through it, but, yeah, it was a challenging moment for me on the court, and it’s been a tough couple weeks on and off the court, but I’m just happy to get through it today.”
Gauff was told she looked concerned and sad after her first-round win. The emotion has been clear to see since this tournament began.
Coco Gauff makes big improvements at the US Open
Given how hard-fought and drawn-out her first-round match was, to win in straight sets against Vekic must have been so refreshing and relieving for Gauff.
After all, the last thing she needed was another dogfight, especially when she was clearly struggling mentally.
The progress she has already made is clear to see in the difference between these two US Open matches, even if her win percentage on second serves took a slight tumble.
She was lethal in her break point conversion and brought her best tennis at the crucial moments.
Gauff will now face Magdalena Fręch in the third round, seeking to maintain her fine form as she bundles through the draw.
