Stuttgart: Gauff Survives Tight First Set, Overpowers Samsonova to Reach Quarters
After Tense First Set, Coco Gauff Takes Control vs. Liudmila Samsonova, Wins 7-5, 6-1 to Advance at Stuttgart
Successful return to clay for Coco Gauff.
Back on the WTA podium after her Miami final, the world No. 3 launched her Stuttgart campaign this Thursday.
Facing Liudmila Samsonova, the American made the difference at the right moment to win in two sets (7-5, 6-1) and reach the quarterfinals.
A turning point in the first set
The Russian will harbor regrets in the first set. After leading 3-0, she served for the set without closing it out.
More solid in key moments, Gauff reversed the momentum. Samsonova then completely unraveled, dropping nine of the next ten games, overwhelmed both mentally and in rallies.
In the quarters, the American faces Karolina Muchova, whom she has beaten in all six prior meetings. A significant psychological edge, even if the Czech aims to upset the order once more.
