Coco Gauff began her Cincinnati Open campaign with an emphatic victory over China’s Wang Xinyu, winning 6–3, 6–2 in just 70 minutes. The 20-year-old American delivered a commanding performance, converting all five break points she earned and showing composure under pressure by saving five of seven break points against her serve.
This win marked her 36th opening-match triumph at a WTA 1000 event, bringing her closer to Martina Hingis’s record of 46 such wins before the age of 22. With five more WTA 1000 tournaments on the calendar before her 22nd birthday in March 2026, Gauff has a realistic chance of narrowing the gap and solidifying her place among the sport’s young greats.
Cincinnati’s Warm Welcome
Beyond her on-court success, Coco Gauff spoke enthusiastically about her experience at the tournament. She praised the hospitality and player facilities, highlighting the abundance of healthy food options, from fresh smoothies to free acai bowls. These small but meaningful touches, she said, have helped her and her team maintain energy and focus throughout the demanding tournament schedule.
The local atmosphere has also made an impression. Gauff noted that she often spends up to 40 extra minutes after practice signing autographs and interacting with supporters. She described the Cincinnati crowd as both knowledgeable and passionate, adding that their enthusiasm gives her extra motivation during matches.
Fans as a Driving Force
Coco Gauff emphasized the consistent excitement from fans, both during matches and around the grounds, as a major factor in her positive mindset. She credited their unwavering support with fueling her energy and confidence, especially after a disappointing early exit in the previous week’s Canadian Open.
Now back in winning form, Gauff appears determined to build momentum in Cincinnati. Her combination of athletic dominance, mental composure, and genuine connection with fans has set a strong tone for the rest of her tournament run. With the possibility of breaking one of the WTA’s notable records on the horizon, all eyes will be on Coco Gauff as she continues her push for history.
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