Over the course of the last fortnight, we have been treated to some world-class tennis. Whether it was Elina Svitolina’s fourth-round match against Jasmine Paolini or Iga Swiatek putting her poor form behind her to mount a comeback against Elena Rybakina, it’s been a joy to watch. Coco Gauff’s victory over Madison Keys did not fit that criteria. Ultimately it was an ugly affair, with two of the world’s top ten struggling to find their game. Nevertheless, there is something entertaining about watching two incredible players trying to cope with their wavering games and find a way to win.<\/p>\n
There was a rather tense start to the opening set, with neither player able to find their game. In the opening game, we saw three errors from Gauff to hand over the early break. However, Keys subsequently handed back the break with some errors from herself. Nevertheless, the 30-year-old was able to establish a break lead. Although her game was erratic at times, it felt as though it was on her racket. When she reached her top level early on, there was nothing Gauff could do.<\/p>\n
Keys soon established a double break, with Gauff visibly frustrated at her game deserting her. In the opening stages, the latter’s serve and forehand were letting her down. Yet, Gauff’s fighting ability is renowned, and while Keys’ level dropped, the 21-year-old deserves credit for wrestling the match back onto serve. The 4-2 and 30-30 point felt important, with Gauff finding her best tennis to close out the game, and hold serve for the first time.<\/p>\n
From that point, Gauff’s forehand solidified and Keys went through a rough patch. The Australian Open<\/a> champion found herself a set point down but was able to produce three excellent points. A tiebreak awaited.<\/p>\n The tiebreak, like much of the first set, was a tail of inconsistency. Both women produced some excellent tennis, but in between there were moments of mediocrity. Ultimately, Gauff’s three double faults caused her to lose the set in just under an hour.<\/p>\n