MusaCoco Gauff, the top seed at the 2025 National Bank Open in Montreal, showcased her trademark grit and resilience once again as she completed a thrilling comeback victory over Veronika Kudermetova to book her place in the Round of 16. Despite battling through another frustrating serving performance, Gauff’s fighting spirit and tactical adjustments on court proved to be the difference in an intense three-set battle.
Kudermetova started the match with a clear game plan, targeting Gauff’s second serve and putting constant pressure on the American with deep, aggressive returns. Gauff’s serving woes, which have been a recurring theme throughout the tournament, resurfaced as she committed several double faults early in the match. Kudermetova capitalized on these opportunities, breaking Gauff’s serve and taking control of the first set, which she won 6-4.
However, Coco Gauff has built a reputation for her ability to turn matches around even when things aren’t going her way. In the second set, she began to find her rhythm from the baseline, using her athleticism and quick footwork to extend rallies and force Kudermetova into making mistakes. Despite the double faults continuing to trouble her, Gauff remained composed and focused on her return games, which became increasingly effective as the match progressed.
A pivotal break of serve late in the second set allowed Gauff to level the match by taking it 7-5. The Montreal crowd roared in support, sensing the momentum shift in favor of the American star.
In the third and deciding set, Gauff came out with renewed energy and tactical clarity. She reduced her unforced errors, improved her first serve percentage, and began dictating points with her forehand. Kudermetova, who had been solid in the early stages, struggled to maintain her level under the mounting pressure from Gauff. The top seed took full advantage, racing to a 6-1 victory in the final set to complete a gutsy comeback win.
After the match, Gauff admitted it wasn’t her cleanest performance but emphasized the importance of mental toughness. “It’s not always going to be perfect, but I’m proud of how I stayed in the fight. Matches like these help build confidence,” she said.
This victory marks Gauff’s second consecutive comeback at the National Bank Open, following her error-strewn but hard-fought win over Danielle Collins. While her serving inconsistency remains a concern, Gauff’s ability to problem-solve and compete under pressure continues to be one of her biggest strengths.
As the tournament progresses, Gauff will look to refine her serve and maintain the aggressive mindset that has served her well during return games. With several top seeds already eliminated from the draw, Gauff’s path to the final looks increasingly promising if she can tighten up key aspects of her game.
For now, the top seed marches on in Montreal, proving once again that her heart and determination can carry her through even the toughest of matches.
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