Defending champion Coco Gauff staged a comeback to defeat Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, advancing to the fourth round of the US Open with a 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 victory. Gauff, the third seed, is aiming to become the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to defend the US Open title. Reflecting on the tough match, Gauff praised Svitolina’s fighting spirit and expressed her determination to bring her best tennis.
Gauff will next face fellow American Emma Navarro, who triumphed over Marta Kostyuk 6-4, 4-6, 6-3. The two previously met in the fourth round at Wimbledon this year, where Navarro caused an upset. Gauff acknowledged her past struggles against Navarro and emphasized the need for mental strength in their upcoming encounter.
Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka, last year’s runner-up, overcame a slow start to defeat Ekaterina Alexandrova 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 in a late-night match that ended at 1:49 am local time. The match began after midnight due to a delayed schedule on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Sabalenka thanked the fans for their late-night support and managed to regain her composure after dropping the first set, ultimately dominating the next two.
Sabalenka, now ranked second in the world, will face Elise Mertens in the fourth round after the Belgian overcame Madison Keys in a marathon 6-7 (5-7), 7-5, 6-4 victory. Both Gauff and Sabalenka continue their bids for Grand Slam glory in a tournament filled with late-night drama and intense matchups.
