“Emma Navarro Advances in Head-to-Head Record, Now 2-1 Against Coco Gauff”
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Emma Navarro Advances Past Coco Gauff in US Open
Title Defense Ends for Gauff
Coco Gauff’s attempt to defend her US Open title ended in the fourth round as she lost to Emma Navarro, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3.
Navarro’s Second Consecutive Victory
Navarro, who also defeated Gauff in the fourth round of Wimbledon in July, improves her head-to-head record against Gauff to 2-1.
Navarro’s Remarkable Achievement
“I lost in the first round the last two years. Now to be making quarterfinals is pretty insane,” Navarro said. “This is the city I was born in, and it feels so special to be playing here.”
Next Opponent: Paula Badosa
In the quarterfinals, Navarro will face No. 26 seed Paula Badosa of Spain, who won 6-1, 6-2 against Wang Yafan earlier Sunday.
Tactics and Challenges
Navarro, ranked 12th in the world, countered Gauff’s power by targeting her weaker forehand. Tennis legend Chris Evert described Navarro as a “human backboard” for her defensive play.
Gauff’s Serving Issues
Gauff struggled with her serve, tallying five double faults in the first set. This included a crucial double fault at 15-40, which gave Navarro a 4-2 lead.
Double Faults and Unforced Errors
Gauff’s serve continued to falter in the final set, contributing to 19 double faults and 60 unforced errors throughout the match. Despite a strong fight, Gauff’s errors and Navarro’s consistent play led to Gauff’s exit.
Gauff Falls Short in US Open Title Defense Despite Third Set Rally
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Gauff Reflects on Match
Coco Gauff shared her thoughts after the loss, stating, “Mentally and emotionally, I gave it my all.” She acknowledged that her serve could have been better. “If my execution was better, the match could have turned out differently,” Gauff explained.
Navarro’s Strategy and Performance
Emma Navarro expressed her feelings about the match, saying, “Losing the second set was tough.” Despite this, she managed to regroup and enter the third set with a fresh mindset. “I played aggressively and think I succeeded,” Navarro added.