Sports

Gauff Reflects on Growth After US Open Quarterfinal Defeat to Rybakina

By CNA

Coco Gauff's hopes of another U.S. Open title were dashed on Thursday following a 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 defeat to Elena Rybakina, though the American departed New York encouraged by recent adjustments to her game. Speaking to reporters, the 22-year-old said she felt in control for much of the tournament. "I think I played almost every match on my terms," Gauff said. "I think the worst match for me was maybe the quarterfinal, where I maybe fell back into some old habits, but in 24 hours I was able to switch that." She added that she remains motivated to continue refining her game in the years ahead. "I'm just excited to keep putting in the work for another year, another two years, and see where I'm at 24, 25, and where my game can take me," she said. Rybakina, who is set to become the new world number one starting Monday, replacing Aryna Sabalenka, applied consistent pressure throughout the match and capitalized on key moments to secure the win. "I think she played really well. I thought it was a really good match, and honestly, it came down to a couple of service games of mine in both sets, and I didn't quite hold," Gauff said. Gauff, who claimed the U.S. Open championship in 2023, has enjoyed a strong stretch of form in recent months, reaching her first Wimbledon semifinal, winning the title in Cincinnati, advancing to the semifinals in Toronto, and making another deep run in New York. Despite these accomplishments, Gauff expressed her focus on long-term consistency rather than short-term success. "My dad came up to me and was like, you accomplished so many great things this summer, and I'm like, I don't care about the summer," she said. "But, I mean, it's the goal. I want to be a consistent player. I want to give myself as many opportunities to lift a trophy. But, yeah, it hurts."