Coco Gauff entered Roland Garros with high expectations and she backed them up with a strong start in the first round. The American star defeated Australia’s Olivia Gadecki in straight sets, 6-1, 6-1. But it wasn’t just her performance that had fans talking.
Before the match even began, Gauff sparked laughter across social media after a humorous pre-game mishap went viral. In the now-viral clip, Gauff sat courtside moments before warm-up when she suddenly realized something important was missing, her rackets. She rifled through her bag only to find it empty of the gear she needed.
Caught off guard, she flashed a surprised expression and then shared a laugh with Gadecki as the realization set in. Gauff spoke briefly with her team, and after a few chuckles, a staff member ran off to retrieve her equipment.
Though the moment caused some initial panic, Gauff handled it with good humor, and got right back to business on the court. And looked like the moment didn’t cause any trouble for her, as she played naturally, as it happened before.
Gauff dominates behind impressive serve stats
Gauff delivered one of her strongest performances of the season, controlling the match from start to finish. She landed 60% of her first serves, won 68% of those points, and converted 71% of her second serves.
Her commanding numbers on Tuesday at Roland Garros reinforced why many consider her a contender for the title this year. But the path won’t be easy. Defending champion Iga Swiatek also advanced to the next round, and the two could meet in a high-stakes showdown later in the tournament.
Next up: Tereza Valentova
Gauff now prepares for a second-round matchup against Czech rising star Tereza Valentova. It will mark their first meeting on the WTA Tour, and could be the beginning of a great rivalry between both players.
While Gauff looks poised to make a deep run, surprises are always part of the French Open’s charm. Just ask Daniil Medvedev, who suffered a stunning early exit at the hands of Britain’s Cameron Norrie. For now, Gauff remains focused and unfazed, rackets firmly in hand this time.