Gauff beats Bencic to reach Australian Open quarters

Coco Gauff battles past Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic in a three-set thriller to advance in Melbourne.

Coco Gauff of the United States celebrates a point against Belinda Bencic of Switzerland in their Women's Singles Fourth Round match on day eight of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 19, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

By Yuni Utomo and Widya Lestari

Coco Gauff advanced to the Australian Open quarterfinals on Sunday after a hard-fought victory over Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic. The 5-7, 6-2, 6-1 win marked a significant milestone for Gauff, who had previously stumbled in the fourth round at both Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Facing a one-set deficit, Gauff relied on her competitive spirit and a renewed sense of confidence to claw her way back against the Olympic gold medalist. The match underscored Gauff’s growth under coach Matt Daly, who has been instrumental in refining her serve and forehand since their partnership began in September.

The match began with Gauff struggling to find her rhythm against a resurgent Bencic. Returning to Grand Slam tennis after giving birth in late October, Bencic showed remarkable form, forcing Gauff into long rallies and using precision to dictate play.

Despite losing the first set, Gauff refused to let her performance unravel. She acknowledged her struggles but maintained composure, drawing on her improved mental approach to the game.

“As athletes, we often make winning feel like something we’re entitled to, instead of something to appreciate,” Gauff reflected before the tournament. “If I can step off the court knowing I gave my best, that’s all I can ask for.”

In the second set, Gauff adjusted her strategy, increasing her average first-serve speed and shortening points. Her determination paid off as she broke Bencic early and maintained control throughout the set.

Belinda Bencic of Switzerland hits a through-the-legs return against Coco Gauff of the United States in their Women's Singles Fourth Round match on day eight of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 19, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Bencic, despite her impressive return to form, began to falter. A critical break at the start of the third set shifted momentum fully in Gauff’s favor. The Swiss player, known for her ability to wear down opponents, struggled to keep up with Gauff’s physical endurance and consistent shot-making.

At 1-2 in the third set, a string of unforced errors and bad luck sealed Bencic’s fate. Gauff capitalized on her opponent’s mistakes, cruising to victory in front of an electrified Melbourne crowd.

New coach, new perspective

Since hiring Daly, Gauff has embraced a more aggressive style of play, focusing on strengthening her forehand and serve. These adjustments have been key to her recent success, including her 2023 U.S. Open victory and a strong performance in the WTA Tour Finals.

Sunday’s win marked Gauff’s 19th victory in her last 21 matches, highlighting her ability to stay composed under pressure. Her performance against Bencic demonstrated not only technical improvements but also a mental resilience that has eluded her in previous Grand Slams.

Coco Gauff of the United States writes "RIP TikTok USA" on the camera after her victory over Switzerland's Belinda Bencic in their Women's Singles match on day eight of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 19, 2025. Photo by Martin Keep/AFP/Getty Images

As Gauff prepares for her quarterfinal match, her confidence and adaptability will be crucial. The Australian Open represents an opportunity for Gauff to solidify her status as one of the sport’s brightest stars.

Facing challenges both physical and mental, Gauff’s journey in Melbourne has showcased her evolution as a player and competitor. With her eyes set firmly on the championship, Gauff is proving that she has what it takes to succeed on the sport’s biggest stages.

For now, her victory over Bencic stands as a testament to her perseverance and growth—a defining moment in what promises to be a remarkable tournament.

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