Coco Gauff advanced to the third round of the U.S. Open after defeating 99th-ranked Tatjana Maria 6-4, 6-0 on Wednesday night, marking her ninth consecutive win at the venue where she secured her first Grand Slam title.
The 20-year-old Floridian faced difficulties with her serve in the opening set at the humid Arthur Ashe Stadium, struggling against the 37-year-old German player who is known for her slicing technique. Gauff recorded seven double-faults and managed to hit less than 50% of her first serves, while also saving four of the five break points she faced. Additionally, she won only 9 of her 17 net approaches and committed 20 unforced errors compared to 10 winners.
Throughout the first set, Gauff’s frustration was evident as she looked toward her guest box and displayed negative body language after mistakes, including rolling her eyes and gesturing with her hands. As she served for the set, she double-faulted twice and encountered break points that could have drawn Maria level at 5-5, but managed to hold on with a key passing shot.
In stark contrast, Gauff dominated the second set, tallying 15 winners against just five unforced errors—two of which were double-faults—and performed exceptionally at the net, winning 10 of 11 points.