Coco Gauff’s title defense was ended in Emma Navarro in fourth round

The reigning champion Coco Gauff is defeated by the fellow American Emma Navarro in the fourth round of the US Open.

By Paul Battison

Sep 02, 2024 01:25 AM

It was Navarro who made the brighter start, earning a break point in the opening game of the match after two double faults by Gauff in a sign of things to come.

Gauff fought back to stay in the game his position, but a couple of loose shots in the 3-2 match gave Navarro another break and Gauff was able to concede with another double error.

As Navarro took the set in her hands, with confidence, firmly securing the set after winning an impressive 27-shot rally, Gauff was furious and was able to shake her head and exchange phrases with her coaching team.

Double mistakes continued to plague Gauff’s game throughout the 2nd set. Another set at 3-3 provided Navarro an opportunity to break and she took it with a fantastic, low forehand, which she smashed down the line.

However, this could signal the beginning of a shift in momentum it was evident that she was close to winning, Navarro suddenly struggled for pace, and Gauff instantly took over.

In the midst of a raucous audience, Gauff remained confidently holding serve until breaking once more to force a decision she sat on her ear with celebration and requesting the crowd to keep roaring.

As the match was poised evenly and the match evenly poised, it was Navarro’s problems with his serve that proved to be the difference. Three double faults in one game giving Navarro the break and an advantage of 2-1.

Gauff’s final service games were marred by mistakes, including three double faults giving an extra match point Navarro and a lengthy forehand affirmed Navarro’s victory.

“I fought really hard today. I just didn’t take care of my serve, so that was the biggest difference,” Gauff added.

“Mentally and emotionally, I did my best. Of sure, there were issues with execution, and I’d like to have served better.

“I think if I would did that, it would have been a different story for me in the match.”