Coco Gauff continued her blazing start to the 2025 season, overcoming a scare in the second set to beat Britain’s Jodie Burrage 6-3, 7-5 and advance to the third round of the Australian Open. Gauff, the reigning US Open champion and a key part of Team USA’s triumph at the United Cup earlier this year, has yet to drop a set this season, showing her dominance over the short.
First Set: Gauff Dominates the Court
The 20-year-old American wasted no time in asserting her dominance, quickly taking a 3-0 lead in the opening set. Although Burrage reacted briefly to regain a break, Gauff quickly regained control, winning eight straight points on his serve and taking the set 6-3. His precision shots and aggressive baseline play left Burrage struggling to keep up.
Second Set: A Roller Coaster of Momentum
Gauff looked set for another easy set as she broke early to lead 2-0. However, a series of double faults and uncharacteristic unforced errors allowed Burrage to come back. The British underdog stunned the crowd by taking a 5-3 lead, marking the first time she had led in the match.
Burrage capitalized on Gauff’s moment of weakness, showing his own mastery with powerful forehands and strategic play. Yet Gauff’s resilience and exceptional comeback ability—she led the WTA in return games won in 2024—took center stage. She leveled the set at 5-5, turning the tide in her favor.
Close the Deal
Burrage, visibly under pressure, failed at a crucial moment. Two consecutive double faults gave Gauff the break point she needed, and the American made no mistake while serving for the match. The second set ended 7-5, with Gauff sealing her victory and a place in the third round against 30th seed Leylah Fernandez, who she has already beaten this season.
Gauff’s Unstoppable Start
The victory adds to Gauff’s growing momentum following a stellar performance at the United Cup, where she beat world number 2 Iga Swiatek without dropping a set. Her ability to navigate through difficult times and maintain composure under pressure underlines her maturity and champion pedigree.
With her eyes firmly set on a maiden Australian Open title, Gauff remains a formidable competitor in Melbourne. Her upcoming clash with Fernandez promises to be another thrilling chapter in what is shaping up to be an electrifying tournament for the young American.
