Coco Gauff has advanced to the Dubai Championships quarter-finals after saving three match points against Elise Mertens.
The American survived a terrible serving performance to advance, saving three match points before securing a 2-6, 7-6, 6-3 victory.
After winning the contest, Gauff jokingly apologised to the crowd in the Dubai Centre Court, noting that her match had held up Alexandra Eala’s contest against Sorana Cirstea.
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Gauff will face Eala in the quarter-finals after the Filipina defeated Cirstea 7-5, 6-2 in Dubai.
Later in the day, Gauff expressed her thoughts on the 20-year-old star and her fans, noting the incredible atmospheres they create.
Coco Gauff says the atmosphere Alex Eala’s fans create is ‘great for the sport’
Speaking to reporters in Dubai, Gauff said: “I mean, I played a couple people in their home — well, crowds are mainly for them. Jasmine [Paolini] in Rome, [Lois] Boisson in Roland Garros. It won’t be the first time.
“I don’t know. I feel like it’s great for the sport to have this atmosphere. It’s very fun, regardless if the crowd is for you or not.”
Gauff then noted the strength of Eala’s game, highlighting the impressive performances she has put in against top 10 players in the past.
Earlier this week, Eala defeated sixth seed Jasmine Paolini, becoming the Asian player to claim WTA top-10 wins at multiple Tier I/WTA-1000 events, eclipsing Naomi Osaka’s record.
Eala also defeated top 10 players Madison Keys and Iga Swiatek at the 2025 Miami Open.
“Then obviously with her [Eala’s] game, she’s really a great, talented player,” Gauff continued. “She’s already beaten some top-10 players in straight sets.
What is the best win of Alexandra Eala’s career so far? 🤔
Iga Swiatek in Miami, Clara Tauson at the US Open, Jasmine Paolini in Dubai, or a different match?
“If I were to play her, it will definitely be a tough match.”
Gauff and Eala’s opportunity
With top seed Elena Rybakina retiring from her round of 16 match on Wednesday, both Gauff and Eala have been handed a golden opportunity.
As a result, Eala or Gauff will face Antonia Ruzic or Elina Svitolina in the semi-finals. If one of Eala or Gauff reaches the final, they will face either Clara Tauson, Jessica Pegula, Amanda Anisimova or Mirra Andreeva. [pictured below].
Gauff will need to improve her serving if she hopes to win the event. The American served 16 double faults and only made 43 per cent of her first serves.
As for Eala, the sky is the limit. She is playing mature, efficient tennis and has every chance of lifting the Dubai Championships trophy on Saturday.
