Coco Gauff’s attempt to defend her Cincinnati Open title came to an unexpected halt as she was defeated in the first round by Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva, with a score of 6-4, 2-6, 6-4. The world No. 34 Putintseva staged a remarkable comeback, overcoming a 2-4 deficit in the final set to win four consecutive games, marking her first victory over Gauff.
Despite being ranked No. 2 in the world, Gauff struggled throughout the match, committing nine double faults and displaying a series of errors. Putintseva praised the high level of play, noting the fast court conditions that contributed to the match's intensity. “The whole match was a roller coaster,” she remarked, highlighting the swift changes in momentum.
With this victory, Putintseva advances to face Spain’s Paula Badosa in the next round. Meanwhile, Gauff, who recently represented Team USA at the Olympics, will look to regroup as she heads into the US Open, starting on August 26, where she will defend her title after winning her first grand slam last year.
In another surprising turn, 2021 US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez also caused an upset by defeating fourth seed Elena Rybakina, winning 3-6, 7-6(3), 6-4. Fernandez, now ranked No. 26, continues to rise through the ranks, showcasing her determination and skill on the court.
