PERTH, AUSTRALIA — In a thrilling display of tennis, the United States surged into the United Cup semifinals after standout performances by Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz secured victory over China on Wednesday.
Teen sensation Gauff faced a formidable opponent in China’s Zhang Shuai, who bravely stepped in after teammate Gao Xinyu withdrew due to injury. Zhang came out swinging, breaking Gauff’s serve three times in a nail-biting first set. But Gauff, showcasing her resilience and skill, fought back to win 7-6 (4), 6-2.
“She was playing really aggressively,” Gauff said. “I knew I had to take my chances and be more assertive to turn the match around.”
Following Gauff’s win, Taylor Fritz took center stage against Zhang Zhizhen. Fritz delivered a masterclass performance, dominating the match with a 6-4, 6-4 victory, and sealing the USA’s place in the semifinals.
Not to be outdone, the American duo Desirae Krawczyk and Robert Galloway clinched the mixed doubles match, defeating Sun Fajing and Zhang Shuai 6-3, 6-7 (1), 10-3, completing a triumphant day for Team USA.
Meanwhile, Kazakhstan capitalized on Germany’s misfortune earlier in Perth. With Germany’s top player Alexander Zverev withdrawing due to a biceps strain, Kazakhstan’s Alexander Shevchenko overpowered Daniel Masur 6-7 (5), 6-2, 6-2, securing their spot in the semifinals. World No. 6 Elena Rybakina also shined, defeating Laura Siegemund 6-3, 6-1.
The United Cup semifinals promise to deliver more exciting tennis action as teams battle for the coveted title.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
