Second seed Coco Gauff continued her impressive run at the 2025 French Open, defeating Marie Bouzkova 6-1, 7-6(3) to secure a spot in the fourth round for the fifth consecutive year. The match, held on Saturday, showcased Gauff’s resilience as she navigated a challenging second set to maintain her perfect record in the tournament thus far.
Dominant Start Sets the Tone
Gauff, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, began the match with a commanding performance, quickly establishing a 3-0 lead within the first 10 minutes. Her aggressive play and precise shot-making allowed her to dominate the opening set, which she won 6-1. This strong start was crucial in setting the momentum against Bouzkova, who had previously defeated Gauff in their two prior encounters.
Navigating a Challenging Second Set
The second set presented a tougher challenge for Gauff. Bouzkova, ranked 47th in the world, broke Gauff’s serve twice and led 5-3, putting the American on the defensive. However, Gauff showcased her mental fortitude by breaking back and forcing a tiebreaker. In the tiebreak, Gauff regained her composure and secured a 7-6(3) victory, closing out the match in straight sets.
Career Milestones and Upcoming Challenges
This victory marks Gauff’s seventh consecutive appearance in the last 16 of a Grand Slam, a feat not achieved by an American woman since Venus Williams accomplished it between 1997 and 2000. Gauff’s consistent performance on clay courts this season is evident, as she now leads with the highest number of clay court match victories (14), tied with Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina.
Looking ahead, Gauff is set to face Russia’s Ekaterina Alexandrova, the world No. 20, in the fourth round. Alexandrova advanced after a straight-set win over Veronika Kudermetova. The upcoming match will determine a quarter-finalist, and Gauff is seen to be playing some of the best tennis of her career.
Broader Context at Roland Garros
Gauff’s advancement comes amid a strong showing by American players at the French Open. A total of eight American players have reached the last 16, tying a national record from 1985. This resurgence highlights the depth and talent present in American tennis, with players like Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys also making significant strides in the tournament.
As the French Open progresses, Gauff’s performance continues to captivate fans and analysts alike. Her ability to overcome challenges and maintain composure under pressure underscores her status as a formidable contender for the title. With each match, Gauff moves closer to her goal of securing her first Roland Garros championship
