Coco Gauff has started her campaign for a second US Open crown with a decisive 6-3, 6-4 triumph over Zeynep Sonmez of Turkey at the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium. The fourth-seeded American came into the tournament on a high after clinching the Cincinnati title and demonstrated her strong form by maintaining a composed demeanor and a formidable serve throughout her first-round match.
Gauff set the pace early, breaking Sonmez in the sixth game to secure the opening set with ease. As the second set commenced, Gauff immediately applied pressure, breaking Sonmez to gain an early advantage. Despite a spirited comeback from Sonmez, who broke back to level the score at 2-2 and challenged Gauff with a lengthy service game, the American held her ground. Gauff saved three break points, relying on a powerful 115mph ace to escape the tight spot and hold for 3-3.
This hold proved pivotal as Sonmez struggled with her serve in the subsequent game, committing two double faults that gifted Gauff another break. The young American maintained her momentum, ultimately serving out the match in one hour and 20 minutes. Gauff concluded the match with an impressive tally of five aces and three double faults, winning 71% of points on her first serve and nearly two-thirds on her second. She was broken only once during the encounter.
This victory adds to a promising streak for Gauff, whose serve has gained consistency following extensive technical refinement. This newfound reliability has empowered her to adopt a more aggressive baseline strategy, easing the burden on other aspects of her game. Up next, Gauff is set to face either Daria Kasatkina or Paula Badosa in the second round.
Additionally, Gauff stands a chance to ascend to the world No. 1 ranking if she secures the US Open title and Elena Rybakina exits the tournament before the semifinals. For now, Gauff can draw confidence from a robust opening performance at the venue where she celebrated her first Grand Slam victory in 2023.