Defending champion Coco Gauff (20) suffered a stunning defeat in the fourth round of the US Open, falling to American compatriot Emma Navarro (23). Navarro’s victory, sealed by a scoreline of 6-3, 4-6, 6-3, was built upon Gauff’s uncharacteristic serving struggles.
Gauff, the third seed, committed a staggering 19 double faults and 60 unforced errors throughout the match. Navarro, seeded 13th, capitalized on these mistakes to dominate the contest. The defeat marks the end of Gauff’s title defense hopes, extending a streak that began after Serena Williams’ successful defense in 2014.
Deja vu for Emma Navarro. pic.twitter.com/ru4WyRGmPs
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 1, 2024
Navarro, who had previously defeated Gauff at Wimbledon in July, continued her dominance against the defending champion. She broke Gauff’s serve early in the first set, securing a 4-2 lead before closing out the opener in the ninth game with a marathon rally.
Gauff’s struggles continued in the second set, as she committed numerous unforced errors and another double fault. However, she managed to regroup and level the match by winning the final three games.
The decisive third set saw Gauff’s serving woes resurface. Three double faults in the opening games allowed Navarro to regain the lead and ultimately secure the victory. Navarro’s triumph marks her first quarterfinal appearance at the US Open in her home city.
