January 18, (THEWILL) – American teenager, Coco Gauff, has advanced to the third round of the Australian Open after a hard-fought victory over British player, Emma Raducanu. The match, which took place on Rod Laver Arena, saw Gauff come out on top in straight sets, winning 6-3, 7-6(5).
The match began with Raducanu attempting to take advantage of the few unforced errors in Gauff’s game. However, Gauff’s powerful backhand proved to be a formidable weapon, allowing her to take an early 3-1 lead. Raducanu responded by winning the next game, earning a break point after Gauff netted, but she was unable to convert it.
Despite Raducanu’s efforts, Gauff’s variety of play and spin on her forehand shots proved to be too much for her opponent, as she took a 5-2 lead in the first set. Raducanu fought back, but Gauff’s consistent serving proved to be the deciding factor, as she claimed the first set 6-3.
The second set was a much tighter affair, with Raducanu’s stomach issues causing her serve speed to drop. Despite this, she managed to level the set at 5-5, and it went to a tiebreak.
Raducanu won the opening point, but Gauff’s superior play in the decisive moments proved to be the difference, as she secured a spot in the third round with a 6-3, 7-6(5) victory.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
