By Kwame Bediako
Coco Gauff came from behind to defeat Mirra Andreeva in the Madrid Open quarterfinal, winning 7-5, 6-1. Andreeva broke Gauff in the first set, but the American fought back, defending four break points in the second set.
Gauff’s persistence paid off as she broke Andreeva to take a 5-4 advantage in the first set. Although she couldn’t convert on her set-point attempts, Gauff eventually broke Andreeva again to take the set. The momentum shifted in Gauff’s favor, and she dominated the second set, racing into a 5-0 lead.
Andreeva managed to claw back one game, but Gauff served out the match, sealing it on the second attempt. The Russian’s momentum had dissipated, and Gauff’s experience and skill ultimately told. The win sets up a semifinal match against Iga Swiatek, a player Gauff has faced numerous times in big tournaments.
The match against Swiatek will be the sixth WTA 1000 semifinal meeting between the two players, the most played semifinal between two opponents at such events since the format’s introduction in 1990. Gauff will need to bring her A-game to overcome the Polish star, who has been dominant on clay this season.
Gauff will face a tough test against Swiatek, but her recent form suggests she’s up for the challenge. With her powerful game and determination, Gauff will look to overcome the Polish star and reach the final of the Madrid Open.
