Coco Gauff has praise for teenage star who ‘strikes’ – Sports News
Coco Gauff confronted a formidable problem in her opening match on the Italian Open, narrowly defeating rising Canadian star Victoria Mboko in a three-set battle. After dropping the primary set 3–6, Gauff rallied to win 6–2, 6–1, however not with out acknowledging Mboko’s spectacular efficiency having not too long ago additionally had form phrases for an opponent she’s performed 3 times already this season.
“Victoria played great tennis. She forced me to play like that. So full credit to her,” stated Gauff, who has not too long ago discovered a new doubles accomplice, post-match. “I was pretty composed because I felt like I was playing the right way in the first, just not necessarily connecting on some shots. I just felt like if I just started to land more balls in, it would go my way.”
Gauff, at the moment ranked world No. 3 after Serena Williams’ former coach had a warning, famous the similarities between herself and the 18-year-old Mboko. “First I saw her Miami Open. I didn’t know much about her before, but I’ve been following her since Miami. I think she’s a great player. I knew it was going to be a tough match.
“The ranking difference looks different, but she’s playing top-level tennis. I approached the match that way. It’s not a case of underestimation. I knew she was going to come out there and play great. Maybe I psyched myself out a little bit in the first set.”
Reflecting on Mboko’s enjoying fashion, Gauff added, “For sure in the movement. I felt like playing myself because I feel like I move pretty well, she moves very well. But she obviously has a great game, so I don’t want to say her game is like mine. For sure on the movement, I would say she’s up there with me on that.”
“As far as the other parts of her game, she’s obviously a big hitter, can play well, moves pretty well, has a nice backhand, same on the forehand. I don’t want to say she plays like me ’cause she obviously doesn’t. We’re like closer in age. I would say on the movement side athletically she’s one of the best athletes on tour.”
DON’T MISS
Mboko’s efficiency in Rome is the newest spotlight in a breakout 2025 season. She started the 12 months with a 22-match successful streak, capturing 4 ITF titles with out dropping a set. Her success continued on the Miami Open, the place she secured her first WTA main-draw victory in opposition to Camila Osorio. These achievements have propelled her up the rankings, reaching a career-high of No. 156.
Despite the loss to Gauff, Mboko’s show in opposition to a top-ranked opponent underscores her potential. As she continues to develop her sport, the tennis world will undoubtedly keep a close eye on this rising expertise.
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