Emma Raducanu had a strong start to the Italian Open, winning against top 100 opponents, but faced a tough challenge from Coco Gauff in the quarter-finals. Gauff displayed exceptional skill, dominating the match with a powerful forehand and defensive prowess, winning 6-1, 6-2. Despite a disappointing start to the season, Gauff's performance in Rome indicates a resurgence, particularly on clay, which suits her game style. Their matchup was a rematch of their previous encounter at the Australian Open, which Gauff also won.
Gauff's first few months of the year were disappointing... however, her fortunes have rapidly turned on the red clay, amplifying her peerless defensive skills.
It took just five minutes for Gauff to highlight the immense challenge her game presents, starting the match pinning Raducanu with her relentless depth.
On clay, the ball bounces even higher in warmer conditions, further facilitating heavy topspin. That made Gauff's forehand completely overwhelm Raducanu.
Raducanu demonstrated her quality and fighting spirit across three wins against solid top 100 opponents, but faced a supreme performance from Gauff.
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