Coco Gauff produced a spirited comeback to defeat Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 on Tuesday, reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals for the first time in her career.
The 22-year-old, already a two-time Grand Slam singles champion, had never progressed beyond the fourth round at the All England Club and suffered a first-round exit in last year’s tournament. Her latest victory marks another milestone, making her the youngest player since Maria Sharapova in 2007 to reach the semi-finals of all four Grand Slam tournament.
Gauff endured a difficult start, committing four double faults and 17 unforced errors as Pegula claimed the opening set. However, the seventh seed responded strongly, displaying the resilience that has defined her campaign.
The turning point came in the second set after Pegula failed to convert three early break-point opportunities. Gauff seized control by breaking serve to love before holding firm to level the match.
The deciding set remained closely contested, but Gauff raised her level in the crucial moments. After Pegula briefly broke back, the American responded immediately to regain the advantage before sealing victory on her opponent’s serve with her first match point.
“I think a lot of people had me going out in the first or second round this tournament,” Gauff said after the match.
“After seven years playing in this tournament, it is the first time I’ve walked onto Centre Court and not felt nervous. So I don’t know – am I becoming a veteran already?” she added.
With the victory, Gauff also became the first woman in 30 years to reach the Wimbledon singles semi-finals after winning four consecutive three-set matches.
She will now face either Naomi Osaka or Karolina Muchova for a place in the Wimbledon final.
