Coco Gauff advanced to the third round of the US Open after surviving a stern challenge from Paula Badosa, winning 6-4, 7-6 (7-5). The American fourth seed and 2023 champion now faces Spaniard Cristina Bucsa.
Played on a hot evening that contrasted with the rain-disrupted start to the tournament, the match saw Gauff under early pressure from world No. 87 Badosa, who holds a positive head-to-head record including recent victories over the American. Gauff saved two break points early on and capitalized on a costly forehand error from Badosa to take the first set. The second set remained tight, with both players breaking serve twice before Gauff clinched the tie-break to seal the victory.
“Paula is a tough player. I feel like I had the lead but there wasn’t too much I did wrong. She stepped it up,” Gauff said. “Definitely not someone you want to play in the second round. Former number two in the world. Great competitor. I think I need matches like this to build my confidence. I’m happy with how I managed today. There was a bit of nerves.”
In other action, French Open champion Mirra Andreeva progressed comfortably, defeating Germany’s Eva Lys 6-0, 6-2, setting up a meeting with Czech qualifier Nikola Bartunkova. Meanwhile, world No. 2 Elena Rybakina cruised past Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-2, 6-4, addressing prior fitness concerns after withdrawing from the Cincinnati Open. “It’s true it wasn’t perfect preparation at all… I’m super happy to be here,” Rybakina said.
Elsewhere, American Learner Tien ended Gael Monfils’ Grand Slam career with a 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 victory. The 20-year-old, seeded 14th, had previously faced the 40-year-old Frenchman on his birthday in the first round. Tien will next play Jakub Mensik. Monfils, who announced his retirement at the end of the year, shared an emotional embrace with his opponent after the final point.
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