A Rocky Start in Cincinnati
Coco Gauff’s Cincinnati Open journey began with turbulence. Facing China’s Wang Xinyu in her opening match, the reigning US Open champion couldn’t quite find her range. Her serve faltered, her timing was off, and her body language reflected the frustration of a star who knows she can do better. For a moment, it seemed like the 20-year-old could be staring down an early exit.
The Turning Point
Yet, pressure has a way of revealing champions. Midway through the second set, Gauff made a subtle but powerful shift — her shot selection became sharper, her footwork more urgent, and her will to fight undeniable. Each rally began to tilt in her favor, and what looked like a shaky opening suddenly turned into a masterclass in resilience.
A Champion’s Response
By the third set, the difference was clear. Gauff tightened her serve, used her speed to chase down impossible balls, and played with the kind of fearless fire that has come to define her young career. The crowd in Cincinnati could feel the momentum swing, and with every fist pump, Gauff was not just winning points — she was reclaiming her identity as a warrior on court.
Lessons on the Road to Flushing Meadows
Matches like these are more than just wins; they are reminders of what separates the great from the good. Gauff’s Cincinnati scare was not a weakness exposed but a lesson learned at the perfect time. With the US Open looming, the test of her composure and mental strength may be exactly the preparation she needed. Flushing Meadows will demand her very best, and this comeback shows she’s ready to answer the call.
