Coco Gauff defeated Iga Swiatek in the semifinal of the 2023 Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati on Saturday, getting the better of the World No. 1 on her eighth attempt.
Gauff won her opening set against Swiatek after losing 14 straight matches by prevailing in a tiebreaker 7-6 (2) to take the early lead in the match. The Pole, though, proved herself in the following set, twice breaking Gauff’s serve to take the second set 6-3. In the third set, the young American gathered herself to break Swiatek’s serve at 3-3 and held on to win the match, 7-6 (2), 3-6, 6-4.
Gauff was ecstatic after earning her biggest career victory. The 19-year-old said during her post-match remarks on the court that a hit song by American pop diva Cardi B motivated her to defy the odds and triumph against a foe she had never defeated before. Gauff cited Cardi’s song “Get Up 10,” claiming it inspired her.
“I saw a quote. ‘Knock me down 9 times, get up 10.’ It’s a Cardi B song. So in this case, knock me down 7 times, get up 8,” Gauff said.
Who is Coco Gauff?
Coco Gauff, whose full name is Cori “Coco” Gauff, is a rising American tennis sensation who has captivated the world with her remarkable skill, determination, and sportsmanship on the tennis court. Born on March 13, 2004, in Delray Beach, Florida, Gauff’s journey to becoming a professional tennis player began at a young age.
Gauff first gained widespread attention in 2019 when, at just 15 years old, she qualified for Wimbledon and defeated Venus Williams in the first round. This victory marked a historic moment, as Gauff became the youngest player to win a main draw singles match at Wimbledon since 1991. Her performance at the tournament showcased her powerful serves, agile movement, and poise under pressure.
