Coco Gauff is off to a strong start in 2025, continuing her unbeaten streak to seven matches and 14 sets after her impressive 6-3, 7-5 win against 173rd-ranked Jodie Burrage from Britain in the second round of the Australian Open. The match took place on Wednesday at the renowned Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.
The 2023 U.S. Open champion faced some challenges, especially in the second set where she struggled with double faults, allowing Burrage to surge back from a 3-1 deficit to a 5-3 lead. However, Gauff regained her composure and closed out the match by winning the last four games. “It was tough. She was serving really well, so I was just trying to manage that, honestly,” Gauff reflected after the match, acknowledging the pressure placed on her by Burrage’s improved performance.
Despite hitting six of her seven double faults in the second set, Gauff maintained a solid overall performance with significantly fewer unforced errors – 11 compared to Burrage’s 37. Burrage’s struggle with double faults in her final service games helped Gauff capitalize and seize the victory. Gauff stated, “She was returning well, so it put pressure on me on my serve.”
This victory builds on Gauff’s momentum from the end of 2024, where she secured four consecutive wins at the WTA Finals, culminating in a triumphant title run that included victories over top-ranked players Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek. With this win, Gauff extends her winning streak to 11 matches, showcasing her rise in form.
In the next round, Gauff will face No. 30 Leylah Fernandez, who defeated Cristina Bucsa to advance. Fernandez was the runner-up in the 2021 U.S. Open and poses another challenge for Gauff as she aims to continue her successful campaign at the Australian Open.
As Gauff progresses in this tournament, her ability to overcome early setbacks and find stability under pressure is promising for her performance in the remaining rounds. There’s a sense of optimism around her potential to capture another title, making her matches ones to watch as the tournament unfolds.