Emma Raducanu`s run at the Italian Open came to an end in the round of 16 following a defeat by Coco Gauff. The American delivered a commanding performance, overcoming the former US Open champion in straight sets.
Gauff quickly established control in the first set, winning it comfortably 6-1. She maintained her dominance in the second set, securing it 6-2 to progress to the quarter-finals in Rome for the third time.
Match Highlights and Player Reactions
While the scoreline suggests a one-sided affair, Raducanu showed flashes of her potential and fought hard, particularly in the first set where she saved multiple set points in one game. However, Gauff`s superior consistency, athleticism, and movement on the clay surface ultimately proved decisive.
Gauff`s serve was a key weapon, as was her forehand. After the match, she rated her performance an `A`, noting the challenging windy conditions but stating she knew what to expect having played on the court previously. She praised Raducanu as a tough opponent on any surface and felt her own game was improving with each match.
Looking Ahead
For Gauff, the victory sets up a quarter-final clash against the winner of the match between Clara Tauson and Mirra Andreeva. A potential semi-final encounter with Aryna Sabalenka remains a possibility.
Despite the loss, Raducanu can take positives from her week in Rome, which included solid wins in the earlier rounds. This performance adds to a promising period for the Brit, following her strong run to the quarter-finals at the Miami Open.
Head-to-Head Record
This was only the second meeting between Gauff and Raducanu. Their previous encounter was in the second round of the 2023 Australian Open, where Gauff also won in straight sets (6-3, 7-6).
Other Results
Results from other Women`s Singles Last-16 matches mentioned:
- Paolini beat Ostapenko 7-5 6-2
- Shnaider beat Mertens 6-2 6-3
- Stearns beat Osaka 6-4 3-6 7-6
- Svitolina beat Collins 6-4 6-2
