MusaCoco Gauff is set for a high-stakes third-round clash against Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska at the 2025 Cincinnati Open, a rematch of their Wimbledon first-round encounter earlier this summer. The two players met in London where Yastremska stunned Gauff, knocking the American out of the grass-court major in a shock upset. Now, on home soil and in front of a supportive crowd, Gauff will be eager to turn the tables.
Gauff’s Cincinnati campaign has been strong so far. After a gritty opening-round win that required her to fight back from a set down, she looked more composed in the second round, showing improved serving and cleaner shot selection. The American has credited “small adjustments” to her game for helping her settle into form, particularly her improved first-serve percentage and patience in rallies.
Yastremska, meanwhile, has been equally impressive. The Ukrainian’s power game and fearless shot-making have helped her dispatch her earlier opponents in straight sets. Known for her aggressive baseline play, she will look to replicate the game plan that worked so well against Gauff at Wimbledon — attacking early, taking the ball on the rise, and not allowing the American to dictate play.
The key for Gauff will be to control her service games and avoid giving Yastremska too many short balls to attack. She will also need to find ways to extend rallies and force the Ukrainian into errors. Mental composure could prove decisive, especially with Gauff carrying the expectations of the home crowd.
Beyond the tactical battle, this match holds an emotional subplot. Gauff admitted in her pre-match press conference that the Wimbledon loss to Yastremska “stung,” but said she’s using it as motivation. “I know what she’s capable of, but I also know I didn’t play my best that day,” Gauff stated. “This time, I’m ready.”
For Yastremska, the challenge will be dealing with the crowd’s energy in favor of Gauff and maintaining her aggressive style without letting unforced errors creep in.
This third-round showdown promises intensity, momentum swings, and a lot of high-quality baseline exchanges. Both players are fierce competitors and will see this as a big opportunity to advance deeper into one of the final major tune-up events before the US Open.
Prediction: Slight edge to Gauff in three sets. Her home advantage, recent form, and extra motivation from the Wimbledon loss could tip the balance — but expect fireworks from start to finish.
John Owolabi
Musa
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