Yastremska — Gauff 2:6, 4:6: A Match to Remember
When 15-year-old Coco Gauff took on 18-year-old Dayana Yastremska in the second round of the Australian Open on January 22, 2020, no one could have predicted the intensity and drama that would unfold on the court. The two young rising stars of women’s tennis put on a show that captivated the world and left fans in awe of their talent and determination. In the end, it was Gauff who emerged victorious with a stunning 2-6, 4-6 win over Yastremska. Let’s take a closer look at this unforgettable match.
Gauff, the youngest player ranked in the top 100 at the time, came into the tournament with high hopes after her breakthrough performance at Wimbledon in 2019, where she defeated Venus Williams and reached the fourth round. Yastremska, on the other hand, was ranked 23 in the world and had already won two WTA titles in her young career. Both players were known for their aggressive style of play and powerful groundstrokes, setting the stage for an exciting clash.
The match started off with Yastremska on fire, taking a commanding 4-0 lead in the first set with her powerful forehand and consistent serving. Gauff, known for her mental toughness, didn’t let the early deficit affect her and fought back to win two games. However, Yastremska’s dominance was too much, and she closed out the set 6-2 with an ace. It seemed like the match was going to be one-sided, but Gauff had other plans.
In the second set, Gauff came out with a renewed focus and energy. She started to dictate play with her aggressive baseline shots and took control of the match. Yastremska, who had been struggling with her serve, was unable to find her rhythm and made several unforced errors. Gauff took advantage of this and broke Yastremska’s serve twice, taking a 4-1 lead. However, Yastremska didn’t give up and fought back to level the set at 4-4. It was a tense moment for both players and the crowd, as the match could have gone either way at this point.
But it was Gauff who showed her mental strength once again, holding her serve and breaking Yastremska for the third time to win the set 6-4. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause as Gauff let out a roar of triumph. It was an incredible comeback from the young American, and the match was now tied at one set apiece.
The third set was a battle of nerves for both players. Yastremska, who had been in control in the first set, was now struggling to find her rhythm, while Gauff was growing in confidence with each passing point. The match was evenly poised at 2-2, and it was anyone’s game. But it was Gauff who once again showed her mental toughness, breaking Yastremska’s serve for the fourth time and taking a 3-2 lead. From there, she never looked back, serving out the match with ease and winning the third set 6-4.
The moment of victory was emotional for Gauff, as she fell to the ground in tears, overwhelmed by the magnitude of her achievement. It was her first top 25 win and the youngest player to reach the third round of the Australian Open since Martina Hingis in 1996. Yastremska also showed great sportsmanship, congratulating Gauff and acknowledging her incredible performance.
This match was a perfect example of the future of women’s tennis. Two young and talented players giving it their all on the court, displaying their skills and determination to win. It was a match that will be remembered for years to come and one that will undoubtedly inspire many young players to follow in their footsteps.
As for Gauff, this win was just the beginning of her journey. She went on to reach the fourth round of the Australian Open, defeating defending champion Naomi Osaka along the way. With her fearless attitude and never-give-up mentality, she has become a fan favorite and one to watch in the future. Yastremska also has a bright future
