For the third consecutive year, Coco Gauff has booked her place in the Australian Open quarter-finals, overcoming a spirited challenge from 19th seed Karolina Muchova. In a compelling "see-saw" battle on Margaret Court Arena, the American third seed eventually prevailed 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, extending her perfect head-to-head record against the Czech to a flawless 5-0.
Historical trends heavily favoured Gauff heading into Sunday. Curiously, the American has won the title at every tournament where she has defeated Muchova, including her 2023 U.S. Open triumph and her recent United Cup success.
Gauff, who now boasts a formidable 21-6 record in Grand Slam matches that go to three sets, credited her physical conditioning and mental composure for the win.
I think today I didn’t panic. I’m 21, so maybe that’s why I don’t get tired yet. I knew I just had to capitalise on those chances in the third set and I did that. I’m really happy with just being able to close it out on my racquet
Coco Gauff
The blitz: Gauff stormed to a 4-0 lead in just 20 minutes, capitalising on Muchova's slow start and 33% first-serve success rate to take the opener 6-1.
The slump: The "serving yips" returned for Gauff in the second set. Muchova seized the opportunity, utilizing her trademark variety and ball speed to claim her first-ever set against the American.
The clinch: Showing maturity beyond her years, Gauff refused to panic in the decider. She cleaned up her second serve and secured an early break, eventually sealing the win on her fourth match point after nearly two hours of play.
