Coco Gauff Dominates US Open Opener, Showcases New Signature Shoe and Olympic Necklace

Coco Gauff Dominates US Open Opener, Showcases New Signature Shoe and Olympic Necklace

Coco Gauff’s whirlwind summer continued with a dominant first-round victory at the US Open, where she showcased her new signature shoe and a special Olympic necklace.

The 19-year-old, who became the youngest player to reach a Grand Slam final at the 2022 French Open, has been enjoying a surreal few months. She has graced the cover of a tennis video game, landed on a Wheaties cereal box, and been selected as Team USA’s flag bearer alongside LeBron James at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

At her New Balance Coco CG2 launch party, Gauff was surprised by a performance from artist Jaden Smith, who sang his hit song “Icon.” Gauff, who often listens to the song before matches, was thrilled to see him perform it live.

On Monday, Gauff put her off-court excitement aside and returned to business on the court. She dispatched Varvara Gracheva in straight sets, dropping just two games in a 66-minute match.

Gauff’s custom New Balance kit for the US Open featured a cornflower blue dress with strategic cutouts and a pleated skirt. She completed the look with her new Coco CG2 shoes in the launch colorway of Power and Grace.

After the match, Gauff revealed a new white-gold necklace featuring the Olympic rings, a gift from Desirae Krawczyk to the Olympic tennis team. “I was like, I just came off the Olympics and was a flag bearer. So I might as well flex that,” Gauff said.

Gauff will face Tatjana Maria in the second round on Wednesday. The German defeated Argentine qualifier Solana Sierra in straight sets to advance.

Djokovic and Gauff Begin US Open Title Defenses

Djokovic and Gauff Begin US Open Title Defenses

Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champions, will begin their title defenses on Monday, with Djokovic aiming to add to his record-breaking Grand Slam tally and Gauff seeking to regain her winning form.

Djokovic, seeded second behind world number one Jannik Sinner, is determined to become the first man to repeat as US Open champion since Roger Federer’s five-year reign from 2004-2008. Despite an injury-plagued year, the 37-year-old Serbian remains motivated by the “pillars of our sport” and is eager to perform under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Gauff, who has struggled for consistency since her maiden Grand Slam victory last year, will face Varvara Gracheva of France in the afternoon session. The American teenager is hoping to rediscover her winning ways and challenge for another major title.

Other notable matches on Monday include:

* Dominic Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion, faces Ben Shelton, who is aiming to build on his impressive semi-final run last year.
* Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe, two of the top American men, will also be in action, hoping to end the US Open title drought for their country.
* Aryna Sabalenka, the Australian Open champion, takes on Priscilla Hon, while Wimbledon winner Barbora Krejcikova faces Marina Bassols Ribera.

In early action, Donna Vekic of Croatia advanced to the second round, while Maria Sakkari of Greece retired with an apparent shoulder injury.

Sabalenka Eyes US Open Glory After Skipping Olympics

Sabalenka Eyes US Open Glory After Skipping Olympics

Aryna Sabalenka’s strategic decision to skip the Paris Olympics has paid dividends as she enters the US Open as a formidable contender. While her rivals, Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek, endured emotional setbacks and inconsistent results during and after the Games, Sabalenka has remained focused and regained her form.

Sabalenka’s consistent performance on the hard courts of New York, with a 16-3 record in the last three editions, gives her an edge over her competitors. She has reached the semi-finals at least and is eager to make a breakthrough at Flushing Meadows.

Gauff, the defending champion, has struggled since her US Open triumph last year. Despite a promising start to the season, she has failed to maintain momentum and has not won a title since. Her recent losses in Toronto and Cincinnati have raised concerns about her ability to defend her crown.

Swiatek, the world No. 1, has also faced challenges in adapting her game to hard courts. While she won the US Open in 2022, she has not been as dominant on this surface as she has been on clay. However, she remains a formidable opponent and will be determined to prove her versatility.

Sabalenka’s recent victory in Cincinnati, where she did not drop a set, has boosted her confidence. She believes that her tough losses in previous years have motivated her to improve and is eager to make a statement at the US Open.

The absence of a two-time women’s singles champion in the last decade at the US Open creates an unpredictable atmosphere. Sabalenka’s consistency, recent form, and strategic preparation give her a slight advantage over her rivals. However, Gauff and Swiatek remain dangerous opponents, and the tournament promises to be a thrilling battle between three of the world’s top players.

Coco Gauff Remains Composed Amidst US Open Title Defense

Coco Gauff Remains Composed Amidst US Open Title Defense

Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, has maintained her composure despite the heightened expectations surrounding her title defense. At her 2024 US Open Media Day press conference, Gauff acknowledged that her life has remained largely unchanged since her Grand Slam triumph.

Gauff attributes her ability to handle the pressure to her gradual rise in the sport. Having competed at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center since her teenage years, she has become accustomed to the attention. This year, however, she arrives in Flushing Meadows without the momentum of a recent Masters 1000 victory.

Despite her early exit in Cincinnati, Gauff believes it has provided her with an opportunity to focus on training. She has endured a busy summer, including her role as flag-bearer at the Paris Olympics. Gauff emphasizes the importance of training blocks for her success and is confident in her preparation for the US Open.

While Gauff has faced criticism online, she remains unfazed. She recognizes that such negativity stems from envy or hatred and chooses to focus on positivity. She draws inspiration from a recent TikTok comment that encouraged her to embrace her victories and not stress over the need for a “victory lap.”

Gauff’s mantra for her first-round match against Varvara Gracheva is to root for success, regardless of her opponent. She believes that this mindset will help her navigate the challenges of defending her title.

US Open Preview: Sabalenka Favored, Pegula Poised for Breakthrough

US Open Preview: Sabalenka Favored, Pegula Poised for Breakthrough

The upcoming US Open promises to be an enthralling spectacle, with a wide-open field of contenders vying for the coveted title.

Aryna Sabalenka, fresh off her victory in Cincinnati, emerges as the betting favorite. Her two Australian Open triumphs and impressive hard-court record make her a formidable opponent. However, world No. 1 Iga Swiatek, a former US Open champion, cannot be overlooked. Her dominance on hard courts remains a threat.

Defending champion Coco Gauff faces a challenging task, given her recent struggles. Elena Rybakina, known for her powerful serve, is another contender to watch.

Beyond these top contenders, several players have the potential to make a deep run. Paula Badosa, with her resurgent form and strong serve, is a dark horse. Amanda Anisimova, a rising star, has shown impressive consistency and the ability to upset top players.

On the other hand, Naomi Osaka, a two-time US Open champion, has struggled to regain her peak form. Her movement and return game have been inconsistent, raising doubts about her chances.

Jessica Pegula, despite potential fatigue from recent tournament runs, remains a strong contender. Her fast strokes and improved serve make her well-suited for the US Open’s conditions.

While Swiatek and Sabalenka are formidable opponents, the odds favor a player like Pegula, who has been performing at an exceptional level lately. Her determination and experience could lead her to her maiden Grand Slam title.

Naomi Osaka Returns to US Open, Gauff Eyes Sabalenka Rematch

Naomi Osaka Returns to US Open, Gauff Eyes Sabalenka Rematch

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka will make her long-awaited return to the US Open this year, marking her first appearance at Flushing Meadows since becoming a mother. The Japanese star, who triumphed at the US Open in 2018 and 2020, will face a formidable challenge in her opening match against No. 10 seed Jelena Ostapenko. The Latvian is a former Roland Garros champion and has been in impressive form this season.

Meanwhile, defending champion Coco Gauff could set up a mouthwatering rematch against Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinals. Gauff, who stunned the tennis world with her run to the final last year, will be eager to defend her title. However, she will face a tough test in the form of Sabalenka, who is currently ranked No. 2 in the world and has been in scintillating form this year.

Other notable matchups in the women’s draw include a potential quarterfinal clash between No. 3 seed Maria Sakkari and No. 6 seed Simona Halep. Sakkari has been in excellent form this season, reaching the semifinals of the French Open and Wimbledon. Halep, a two-time Grand Slam champion, will be looking to make a deep run in New York after a disappointing Wimbledon campaign.

In the men’s draw, defending champion Daniil Medvedev will be aiming to retain his title. The Russian is currently ranked No. 1 in the world and will be the top seed at Flushing Meadows. However, he will face stiff competition from the likes of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Carlos Alcaraz.

Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, is always a threat at the US Open. The Spaniard has won the tournament four times, including in 2019. Djokovic, a 21-time Grand Slam champion, is also a former US Open winner. The Serbian will be looking to add to his tally after missing the Australian Open earlier this year due to his vaccination status.

Alcaraz, the rising star of men’s tennis, has been in sensational form this season. The Spaniard has won five titles, including the Madrid Open and Barcelona Open. He will be aiming to make a deep run at the US Open and challenge the established order.

The US Open is set to be a thrilling spectacle, with a host of top players vying for the prestigious title. The tournament will begin on August 29th and conclude on September 11th.

Top Contenders Emerge for Thrilling US Open Women's Singles Competition

Top Contenders Emerge for Thrilling US Open Women’s Singles Competition

The 2024 US Open is poised to witness an enthralling women’s singles competition, with several top players vying for the coveted title. Iga Świątek, the world number one, enters the tournament as the overwhelming favorite. Her dominance on clay courts has been undeniable, and she has proven her versatility on hard courts as well. However, her recent setbacks at Wimbledon and the Olympics have raised questions about her vulnerability.

Coco Gauff, the defending champion, will be eager to replicate her success from last year. Despite a rollercoaster season, she remains a formidable opponent. Her familiarity with the US Open courts and the home crowd’s support could give her the edge she needs to defend her title.

Aryna Sabalenka, known for her powerful serve and decisive game, has had a year of ups and downs. After a strong start, she was sidelined by a shoulder injury. Her recent resurgence at the Cincinnati Open has signaled her return to form. With 15 career titles to her name, Sabalenka is a serious contender for the US Open crown.

Jessica Pegula, a consistent performer on the WTA Tour, has established herself as a top-three player. Her versatility and ability to perform under pressure make her a strong contender. With six singles titles and seven doubles titles to her name, Pegula is a player who can never be underestimated.

Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, has continued to impress with her powerful baseline game and strong serve. Her titles at Indian Wells and the Italian Open this year demonstrate her ability to compete at the highest level on hard courts. Her aggressive style of play is well-suited to the fast conditions at the US Open.

As the tournament approaches, these top contenders will be closely watched. Świątek’s dominance, Gauff’s resilience, Sabalenka’s resurgence, Pegula’s consistency, and Rybakina’s power will all be on display. The 2024 US Open women’s singles competition promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.

Coco Gauff's Signature Shoe Evolves with New Balance Coco CG2

Coco Gauff’s Signature Shoe Evolves with New Balance Coco CG2

Coco Gauff’s meteoric rise in tennis has been accompanied by a parallel evolution in her signature footwear. A year after her triumph at the 2023 US Open, New Balance unveils the second edition of her signature shoe, the Coco CG2, set to launch on August 21st.

Inspired by the classic New Balance 550s, the CG2 features a distinctive high profile and a playful swap of the basketball on the tongue label for a tennis ball. Gauff’s personal style shines through in the shoe’s design, with the word “Power” woven into the left shoe’s label and “Grace” on the right. Her initials, “CG,” are etched on the pivot point.

The CG2’s geometric-shaped design, stability, and flexibility pay homage to Gauff’s beloved city of Paris, where she reached her first Grand Slam final in 2022. Suede overlays enhance the shoe’s off-court style, while its responsive Energy Arc technology ensures on-court explosiveness.

“I had as much fun designing and collaborating on the CG2 as I did with the CG1,” said Gauff. “My relationship with the New Balance team is incredible, and I’m excited to see what people think of the evolution of this shoe!”

The New Balance Coco CG2 launches with the “Power and Grace” colorway on August 21st.

Coco Gauff Stunned in Cincinnati Open Upset

Coco Gauff Stunned in Cincinnati Open Upset

Coco Gauff’s title defense at the Cincinnati Open came to an abrupt end in the second round, as she was upset by Yulia Putintseva in three sets, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4. The defeat marks a disappointing setback for Gauff, who was hoping to build momentum heading into her US Open title defense.

A year ago, Gauff made a breakthrough at the Cincinnati Open, defeating world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the semifinals and capturing her biggest title to date. That victory propelled her to even greater heights, as she went on to win the 2023 US Open.

However, Gauff has struggled to find her form in the lead-up to this year’s Cincinnati Open. She is now 1-2 across the North American hard-court swing, with her lone victory coming in Toronto over Wang Yafan.

Putintseva, who had a 0-3 head-to-head record against Gauff going into their clash, played with determination and resilience. She broke Gauff’s serve in the first set and held on to win 6-4. Gauff responded strongly in the second set, breaking Putintseva’s serve twice to level the match.

But Putintseva regained her composure in the third set, breaking Gauff’s serve early and holding on to her own serve throughout the set. She eventually sealed the victory with a forehand winner, sending Gauff packing.

Putintseva will now face Washington DC champion Paula Badosa in the round of 16. Badosa, who toppled No. 13 seed Anna Kalinskaya 6-3, 6-2 earlier in the day, will be a tough opponent for Putintseva.

Gauff’s defeat is a reminder that even the best players can experience setbacks. She will now have to regroup and refocus her efforts on the US Open, where she will be aiming to defend her title.

Coco Gauff's US Open Title Defense: Can She Overcome Recent Struggles?

Coco Gauff’s US Open Title Defense: Can She Overcome Recent Struggles?

Coco Gauff’s recent form has raised questions about her chances of defending her US Open title. After winning her maiden Grand Slam last year, Gauff has struggled for consistency in 2024, losing four of her last 10 matches. However, despite these setbacks, Gauff’s overall statistics suggest she is still a formidable opponent.

In 2023, Gauff had a winning percentage of 76.1%, a hold percentage of 73.4%, and a break percentage of 41.2%. In 2024, her winning percentage has dropped slightly to 74.5%, but her hold percentage remains high at 72.0% and her break percentage has improved to 46.2%. These numbers indicate that Gauff is still playing at a high level.

One area of concern for Gauff is her forehand, which has been a weakness throughout her career. She has shown signs of improvement in this area, but she still tends to make unforced errors from that side of the court. Her serving has also been inconsistent, with her double-fault percentage increasing from 5.1% in 2023 to 8.5% in 2024.

Despite these concerns, Gauff has a history of performing well at the US Open. She has reached the semifinals of the Australian Open this year and has a strong record against top players. Additionally, the absence of Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Elena Rybakina from the tournament due to injuries or poor form makes Gauff’s chances of winning even more promising.

Overall, while Gauff’s recent form has been inconsistent, her overall statistics and past performance at the US Open suggest that she is still a contender for the title. Her odds of +650 at FanDuel Sportsbook represent a good value for bettors who believe she can overcome her weaknesses and defend her championship.

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