Coco Gauff, one of America’s biggest tennis talents, will finally have a Grand Slam semi-finals appearance on her resume. Gauff is through to the 2022 French Open semis after claiming a win over former US Open champion Sloane Stephens on Tuesday.
Despite playing against a much more experienced opponent, the No. 18 seeded Gauff had her cool when it mattered the most. This was especially the case in the first set, where she built a 5-2 lead only to see Stephens come back by taking the next three games.
Gauff responded by winning her own serve and then breaking for the first set. The second set was a more comfortable affair, as Stephens lost her rhythm and made too many unforced errors to stay in the match.
“I believe in myself. Even last year, I was too focused on trying to fulfill other people’s expectations,” said Gauff after the match. “I know no matter how good or bad my career is, I know I’m a good person, so I think that’s a good message for young people. … Just know: If you love yourself, who cares what anyone else thinks?”
Coco Gauff made her big breakthrough at 2019 Wimbledon when she reached the fourth round as a 15-year-old player. She followed that up with quarterfinals appearances at the 2021 Australian Open and 2021 Wimbledon.
Gauff’s previous best result at Roland Garros was second-round last year. She is yet to drop a set at the tournament this year.
