Game, set, match! The USA tennis squad powered through to the United Cup semifinals in Perth, knocking out China in an electrifying showdown! 🎾🔥
Superstars Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz led the charge on Wednesday, each securing vital singles victories that halted China's impressive campaign. Gauff, the world No. 3 and 2023 U.S. Open champion, faced a fierce challenge from Zhang Shuai but emerged victorious with a 7-6 (4), 6-2 win. \"I felt like I couldn't get her on defense,\" Gauff admitted. \"She was playing so aggressive on me… I had to take my chances!\" 💪
China, finishing as the highest-placed group runner-up, faced a setback when rising star Gao Xinyu was sidelined due to injury. Gao had been on fire, stepping in for world No. 5 Zheng Qinwen and delivering clutch wins against Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia and Germany's Laura Siegemund. 🌟
Despite the challenges, Zhang Shuai stepped up to the plate, putting up a valiant effort against Gauff and breaking her serve three times in the opening set. But Gauff's resilience proved too much as she powered through to claim the match. 🎯
Taylor Fritz, the world No. 4, sealed the deal for Team USA with a commanding 6-4, 6-4 victory over Zhang Zhizhen. Fritz's strong serves and relentless play secured the Americans' spot in the semifinals. \"Our team brought the energy today,\" Fritz said. \"We’re ready for the next challenge!\" 🏆
In an exciting mixed doubles match, Desirae Krawczyk and Robert Galloway outlasted Sun Fajing and Zhang Shuai, winning 6-3, 6-7(1), 10-3, adding the cherry on top for Team USA's triumph. 🍒
Earlier in the tournament, Kazakhstan shook things up by defeating defending champions Germany after world No. 2 Alexander Zverev withdrew due to a biceps strain. Elena Rybakina, the world No. 6, kick-started Kazakhstan's knockout round with a stellar 6-3, 6-1 victory over Siegemund. 💥
The stage is set for some epic semifinal action! Stay tuned for more thrilling tennis moments. 🎾✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
