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Gauff Dominates Boulter in Beijing

Katie Boulter v. Coco Gauff

 

In a riveting first-round clash at the WTA Beijing tournament on September 29, 2024, Coco Gauff triumphed over Katie Boulter in straight sets, winning 7-5, 6-2. The match showcased Gauff's dominant serving and impressive break-point conversion rates, which proved pivotal in her victory.

Gauff displayed exceptional consistency on serve throughout the encounter, effectively neutralizing Boulter's return game. In the first set, Gauff won 75% of her service points, securing five aces and offering only one break-point opportunity, which she saved confidently. This ability to hold serve under pressure was evident in the sixth game, where Gauff was down 15-40 but rallied back to win the game.

Conversely, Boulter struggled with her serve, particularly in crucial moments. She faced multiple break points across both sets and failed to capitalize on the few opportunities she had. In the first set alone, Boulter was broken three times, including twice back-to-back in the fifth and sixth games. Although she managed to break Gauff once to stay on serve at 5-5, she could not maintain the momentum, dropping the next game and subsequently the set.

Gauff's aggression on return games was a significant factor. She converted 4 out of 9 break points - a solid 44%, showcasing her ability to pressure Boulter's second serve. In the second set, Gauff's dominance was even more pronounced. She won 80% of her first-serve points and again limited Boulter to a single break-point opportunity, which she could not convert. Gauff seized two crucial breaks in the third and fifth games, racing to a 4-1 lead which she never relinquished.

The statistical analysis underlines Gauff's superior performance, particularly her serving strength and return efficiency. Her ability to deliver under pressure and exploit Boulter's second serves marked the disparity between the two players. As Gauff marches into the next round, this match serves as a testament to her growing prowess and strategic acumen on the court.