Aryna Sabalenka Regains Momentum, Coco Gauff Suffers Another Setback in Dubai
Aryna Sabalenka’s Resurgence
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka asserted her dominance on Tuesday, securing a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Veronika Kudermetova in the second round of the Dubai Tennis Championships. The Belarusian showcased her unwavering determination, seizing crucial moments and regaining confidence after a disappointing first-round exit at the Qatar Open last week.
Sabalenka’s unwavering focus proved pivotal in the face of Kudermetova’s resolute challenge. The Russian held her own in the opening stages, but Sabalenka’s relentless pressure and commanding serves gradually tilted the balance in her favor. The Belarusian broke Kudermetova’s serve twice in each set, ultimately sealing the match in 83 minutes.
"I’m glad to be back to winning ways," Sabalenka expressed after the match. "I had a tough time in Doha, but I’m working hard to improve. Today, I played with more intensity and confidence, which was key to the victory."
In the next round, Sabalenka will face Denmark’s Clara Tauson, who stunned fifth-seeded Elena Rybakina in straight sets. Sabalenka will aim to continue her resurgence and strengthen her position as the top-ranked player in women’s tennis.
Coco Gauff’s Struggles Continue
American teenager Coco Gauff encountered another setback in her quest for a strong start to the season. After an early exit at the Qatar Open, Gauff suffered a 6-4, 7-5 defeat to compatriot McCartney Kessler in the second round of the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Despite a promising start, Gauff’s momentum faltered as Kessler’s consistent play and timely aggression proved too much to overcome. Kessler, who is currently ranked 146th in the world, broke Gauff’s serve twice in each set, taking advantage of the 18-year-old’s unforced errors.
"I felt like I was playing well today, but I just couldn’t find my rhythm consistently," Gauff acknowledged post-match. "I made too many mistakes, and McCartney played great. I need to work on my game and try to bounce back stronger next time."
Kessler, who will compete in her first Masters 1000 third round, will face Czech Karolina Muchova in the next round. The 25-year-old American hopes to continue her impressive run and reach the quarterfinals for the first time in her career.
Other Notable Results
- Jessica Pegula (USA) defeated Petra Kvitova (CZE) 6-4, 6-4
- Barbora Krejčíková (CZE) defeated Belinda Bencic (SUI) 6-4, 6-2
- Karolina Muchova (CZE) defeated Danielle Collins (USA) 6-4, 7-6(5)
- Madison Keys (USA) defeated Liudmila Samsonova (RUS) 6-4, 6-1
