The number one series leader, Coco Gauff, acknowledged that there were “things to improve” after overcoming a setback in the middle of the game to defeat American compatriot Claire Liu in two sets during the first round of the Auckland tournament this past Tuesday.
The US Open winner Gauff prevailed in her season-opening match 6-4, 6-2. After taking a 4-0 lead over Liu, who is rated 92 places lower, the world number three’s game became less flowing. After making two double errors, she lost her service, and Liu broke once more to cut the lead to 5–4.
But after Liu’s forehand went wide, the 19-year-old found her composure to win the opening set.
Gauff defeated 16-year-old Czech Brenda Fruhvirtova 3-2 in the second set to earn two more breaks and move on to the next round.
RELATED ARTICLE: US Open: American Coco Gauff wins her first Grand Slam by beating Aryna Sabalenka
Gauff declared herself satisfied with her performance as she begins her preparations for the Australian Open, which begins on January 14, despite four double faults and a first serve at just 65%.
“I needed to test myself and I feel like I played well today for my first match in a long time,” said Gauff, who is defending the Auckland title she won 12 months ago. “There are obviously things I can do to improve, but I’m happy with this win,” she added.