Gauff Stays Unfazed and Focused

Coco Gauff, currently ranked third in the world, successfully advanced past the first round of the Australian Open. She secured a convincing victory against Uzbek player Kamilla Rakhimova, ranked 93rd, with a score of 6-2, 6-3. Gauff, 21, expressed her determination, stating, “I’m here to win the tournament. I will only be satisfied if I win the title.”

Gauff’s Strong Performance

This year marks Gauff’s second appearance at the Australian Open. Last year, she achieved her best result by reaching the semifinals. In the second round, she is set to face Serbian left-hander Olga Danilovic, who is ranked 69th. Gauff commented on the challenge, noting her preparation against left-handed player Alexandra Eala. “It will be a tough match, but I am looking forward to it,” she added.

Recent Achievements

• Winner of the 2023 US Open
• Champion at Roland-Garros in 2025

In her match against Rakhimova, Gauff initially struggled to close out the game at 5-2 but ultimately triumphed after breaking Rakhimova’s serve for a sixth time. She remarked, “I would have preferred to finish a game earlier on my service, but we have numerous opportunities to break here.”

Swiatek’s Challenges

Meanwhile, World No. 2 Iga Swiatek faced a challenging first round, overcoming China’s Yuan Yue, ranked 130th, with a score of 7-6 (5), 6-3. Swiatek is aiming to complete her career Grand Slam with a victory at the Australian Open, having already claimed titles at Wimbledon, Roland-Garros, and the US Open.

• Swiatek’s Major Titles:
  • Wimbledon 2022
  • Roland-Garros (4 titles)
  • US Open 2022

Swiatek found herself trailing 5-3 in the first set but managed to regain control. Reflecting on her performance, she admitted, “I was a bit rusty at the start. I lacked consistency, but I know I have things to refine.” She recognizes the need to focus on her game and improve as the tournament progresses.

Other Notable Matches

• Sofia Kenin’s struggles continued as she lost to American Peyton Stearns, 6-3, 6-2. Kenin, once the champion in 2020, has exited in the first round five consecutive times.
• Peyton Stearns achieved 15 aces with only one double fault, finishing the match in just 1 hour and 14 minutes. She will face Croatia’s Petra Marcinko next.
• Amanda Anisimova, the fourth seed, won in 60 minutes against Simona Waltert.
• Jessica Pegula also advanced smoothly, defeating Anastasia Zakharova with a score of 6-2, 6-1.
• 15th seed Emma Navarro was eliminated in three sets by Magda Linette.

As the Australian Open continues, Gauff and Swiatek remain focused on their goals, showcasing their resilience in this highly competitive tournament.