US Open 2026: Coco Gauff Reaches Semifinals After Fighting Back Against Andreeva
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Coco Gauff secured her place in the semifinals of the 2026 US Open after overcoming Mirra Andreeva in a demanding three-set quarterfinal at Flushing Meadows.
The American, who won the US Open in 2023, recovered from losing the opening set to defeat the fifth-seeded Andreeva 2-6, 7-6(7), 6-2.
Gauff had been in strong form at the tournament, but her quarterfinal proved to be a major test. After dropping the first set, she found herself under further pressure when a 5-3 advantage in the second set was reduced.
The second set eventually went to a lengthy tiebreak, where Gauff managed to stay composed and secure the set 9-7. The result changed the momentum of the match.
Gauff then took control in the deciding set, producing a much stronger performance and creating opportunities to break Andreeva’s serve. She eventually completed the comeback 6-2 in the third set.
Gauff Credits Fighting Spirit
Speaking after the match, Gauff explained that she used the example of fellow American Frances Tiafoe to motivate herself during a difficult stage of the contest.
Tiafoe had also produced a determined performance in his quarterfinal against Alex Michelsen, and Gauff said she thought about his comeback while taking a break from the court during her match.
The 22-year-old said her main objective was to keep fighting and avoid leaving the court with regrets.
That mindset helped Gauff turn the match around and advance to the final four at the US Open for the second consecutive Grand Slam.
Tough Semifinal Ahead
Gauff’s next opponent will be Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina, who defeated Paris 2024 Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen in her quarterfinal.
Rybakina’s victory also moved her to the top of the provisional women’s singles rankings.
The upcoming semifinal is expected to present another significant challenge for Gauff, with both players looking to secure a place in the US Open final.
Gauff will now aim to maintain the fighting spirit that helped her overcome Andreeva as she continues her pursuit of another Grand Slam title in New York.
