Coco Gauff Drops Just Two Games in Miami Open Semifinal: "I Didn't Expect to Be Here"

Coco Gauff (22, world No. 4) dominated Karolina Muchova (29, world No. 14) with a resounding 6-1, 6-1 victory, securing her spot in the Miami Open final. She will now face either world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka (27) or Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina (26, world No. 2).

After withdrawing from Indian Wells in the third round, Coco Gauff considered skipping the Miami Open entirely, with her team suggesting she focus on preparing for the clay-court season.

Ultimately, the American decided to compete and has enjoyed an exceptional run, clinching five victories en route to the final. Having already defeated Sorana Cîrstea and Belinda Bencic, Gauff faced Karolina Muchova, a formidable opponent.

However, the Czech player was unable to withstand the 22-year-old's onslaught. Gauff played flawlessly, dominating both sets to secure a 6-1, 6-1 win in 90 minutes. While the score might suggest an easy match, many games were extended, but the world No. 4 consistently managed to win the crucial points.

Thus, Gauff has advanced to the Miami Open final, where she anticipates an extremely challenging encounter. She will face either Aryna Sabalenka or Elena Rybakina.

“I'm incredibly excited to be in the final of this tournament. I honestly didn't expect to be here. I've been trying to find the joy in playing. I had fun today, and it was easier, but this week has been full of long matches. I'm happy I got through in two sets (against Karolina Muchova),” Gauff stated in her on-court interview.

“After Indian Wells, I considered not playing here. One day I woke up and told myself I had to try to play if I could. I'm happy with my decision; I trust in God, and He has better plans than I do,” the American concluded.

The clash between Sabalenka and Rybakina is scheduled for tonight, around 2:30 AM local time.