At Flushing Meadows, Coco Gauff’s dreams of retaining her US Open crown were shattered by compatriot Emma Navarro in the fourth round.
Gauff’s serve was her downfall, as she committed an astonishing 19 double faults, including 11 in the decisive third set.
This led to a 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 defeat, with Navarro capitalizing on Gauff’s mistakes to secure a quarter-final spot.
Navarro’s triumph was all the more remarkable given her previous loss to Gauff at Wimbledon just two months prior.
However, this time, she rose to the occasion, acknowledging the significance of competing in her hometown.
“Reaching the quarter-finals is surreal, especially after my past struggles,” Navarro said. “Playing in New York, where I was born, makes it even more special.”
Gauff’s defeat marks a missed opportunity to become the first woman to defend the US Open title since Serena Williams in 2014.
Meanwhile, Navarro’s achievement makes her the youngest American woman to reach the quarter-finals at both Wimbledon and the US Open in the same year since Williams in 2004.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Navarro’s next encounter against Paula Badosa, who dominated Wang Yafan 6-1, 6-2 earlier in the day.
Navarro expressed admiration for Gauff, saying, “Coco is an incredible player, and I have no doubt she’ll return stronger and win this title again.” Gauff will now regroup and focus on future challenges.
