Coco Gauff delivered a stunning performance to advance to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, defeating Belinda Bencic in a thrilling three-set match. The 18-year-old American prevailed with a scoreline of 5-7, 6-2, 6-1, marking an impressive comeback after dropping the first set. This victory continues Gauff's unbeaten start to 2025, extending her winning streak to nine consecutive matches—a feat she has achieved for the third time in her career. Only four legendary players have accomplished a perfect season start like this: Margaret Court, Steffi Graf, Monica Seles, and Serena Williams.
Gauff's athletic prowess was on full display as she showcased her ability to cover the court extensively. Her decisive backhand winner down the line sealed a crucial break, epitomizing her tenacity and skill. With this victory, Gauff is set to face No. 11 seed Paula Badosa in the quarterfinals. Notably, Gauff has not dropped a set this year until her encounter with Bencic, signaling her formidable form.
Bencic, the 2020 Olympic champion, presented a formidable challenge, matching Gauff's energy and determination in the first set. However, Gauff elevated her game in the second set, winning three consecutive games with an aggressive approach, including an emphatic overhead smash that set the tone for her comeback.
Amid her on-court triumphs, Gauff expressed her disappointment over the impending shutdown of TikTok in the United States. Ahead of a ban slated to take effect on Sunday, she drew a broken heart on a TV camera lens courtside and wrote "RIP TikTok," reflecting her sentiments.
“Hopefully it comes back. It’s really sad … I love TikTok. It’s like an escape. I honestly do that before matches,” – Coco Gauff
Her father echoed the sentiment of resilience and determination that has characterized her journey.
“You have to get some fight in you” – Coco Gauff's Dad
Gauff's achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she humbly acknowledged her place among tennis greats.
“It’s pretty crazy to be amongst the same stat line as legends and I’m very grateful,” – Coco Gauff
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