Teen prodigy Coco Gauff launched her Australian Open title bid with authority, toppling Uzbekistan’s Kamila Rakhimova 6-2, 6-3 in straight sets on Rod Laver Arena to storm into the second round. The brisk 99-minute encounter delivered Gauff her 75th career Slam triumph, solidifying a 23-4 first-round ledger in majors.
Seven double faults marred her serve, yet Gauff’s razor-sharp returns, expansive court coverage, and steady play dismantled Rakhimova. The first set hung tense as Rakhimova clawed back from 2-5, denying three set points, but Gauff’s ice-cool serve response clinched it. Rakhimova rallied in set two with inventive lobs and drop shots, buoyed by fan backing, testing Gauff’s resolve.
Powering to 5-1, Gauff faltered briefly with errors gifting a game, but she pounced back with a break for her sixth, sealing victory emphatically. This performance broadcasts Gauff’s hunger for Australian Open silverware.
Afterward, Gauff admitted shunning opener pressure, laser-focused on overall conquest. Her return game, she said, guarantees pressure on every foe serve. Next challenge: lefty Olga Danilovic, conqueror of Venus Williams in a three-set thriller.
With momentum surging, Gauff embodies the next-gen firepower ready to conquer Melbourne’s Grand Slam stage.