Coco Gauff Finally Registers Her First Win Against Anastasija Sevastova at National Bank Open 2021

It’s been a heavenly experience for tennis fans all around this season, as the action continues. Power-packed performances grace the courts of Canada as WTA Montreal kicks off in style. With some of the biggest names going head to head, it promised quite the entertaining encounters. Among the many stars, one that stood out exuberantly was America’s youngster, Coco Gauff. However, her first-round clash was against an arch-rival who has got the better of her in the past – Latvia’s World No. 64, Anastasija Sevastova.

Earlier this year, Coco Gauff tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, the American had no option but to pull out of the prestigious 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Hence, her return to the court in Canada was the undoubted highlight so far.

However, her rivalry with the Latvian international was enough to raise concerns of a dream return turning ugly. As both got ready for battle, the crowd backed one while history sided the other.

Emphatic first-set from Coco Gauff

Game, set, and ready, Coco approached the game with lethal attacking and mind-bowling backhands. She took the game head-on and dominated right from the first set.

The youngster recorded a 77% win on her first serve and a brilliant 80% on her second serve. Her counterpart, however, failed to keep up with Coco’s attack, winning just 16 points to Coco’s 32.

The 17-year-old won five games in a row in a thrilling fashion and got the all-important upper hand in the match. As the scoreline read, 6-1, Anastasija seemed closer to defeat and Coco, through to the next round.

Heading into the second set, fans witnessed a rejuvenated Anastasija on display. She looked more solid, firm and found her footing on-court, winning the first two games on the bounce. Ready to take the match by the crux of it, the Latvian had nothing to lose, as she played fiercely. Halfway through, the second set scoreline read 3-0 to Anastasija.

Was a resurrection on the cards or was it nothing more than a glimmer of false hope?

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Down to the wire

Undoubtedly, Coco wasn’t one to let go of her lead after the hard-fought battle in the first set. Now, as the tables turned, it was the American fighting for her place in the match, but fighting in style indeed.

From 3-0 to 3-3, fans were on the edge of their seats watching Coco turn the match on its course. Two games away, one had a foot in the next round, while one fought for a second chance.

The two stars had met on three occasions previously, with the Latvian beating Coco all three times. Hence, the American was here to draw first blood and was sure to not leave without a win. Courtesy of her dominance and authoritative tennis, she won the thriller, beating Anastasija Sevastova in straight sets.

As the scoreline read 6-1, 6-4, Coco Gauff marched into the next round, continuing her dream return.

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