Coco Gauff’s title defense 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

In the end, it was Navarro who had the better start, securing an opportunity to break the first game after two double mistakes by Gauff as a sign of what is to come.

Gauff fought back to stay in the game the lead, but a few loose shots at 3-2 offered Navarro another break chance Gauff was able to concede after committing another double omission.

As Navarro was able to secure the set with confidence, firmly securing the set after claiming the title of a 27-shot rally an angry Gauff shrugged her head and traded a few words with her team of coaches.

Double errors continued to plague Gauff’s game throughout the 2nd set. A third set at 3-3 gave Navarro the chance to break, which she did by launching a stunning, sharp forehand shot that landed her in the final.

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.

With the support of the crowd, Gauff held serve until breaking once more to force a decisive decision she sat on her ear with joy and asking the crowd to make more noise.

As the match was poised evenly and the match evenly poised, it was the 20-year-old’s issues with the serve that could prove to be the difference and result in three double faults in one match handing Navarro the break and a lead of 2-1.

Gauff’s last service game was marred by mistakes, with three double faults granting 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 put in my best effort. Of sure, there were things that were executed poorly, and I would like to serve better.

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