Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz led the United States to a dominant victory over Czechia in the semifinals of the United Cup, securing a spot in the final of the mixed-teams tennis tournament.
Gauff's commanding performance and Fritz's fortuitous win after Tomas Machac's retirement propelled the US to a 2-0 lead, making the result impossible for Czechia to overturn.
Gauff set the tone for the US with an impressive singles victory against Karolina Muchova. The World No. 3 took control early, dominating Muchova in a 6-1, 6-4 win. Gauff’s aggressive baseline play and focused intensity left Muchova little chance.
After racing to a 3-0 lead in the first set, Gauff closed it out with composure, saving two break points in her final game. In the second set, despite Muchova breaking back to level at 4-4, Gauff quickly regained control and sealed the match in just 90 minutes.
This victory extended her unbeaten record against Muchova to four matches, a feat that only reinforced Gauff’s standing as one of the most formidable players on the tour.
As Gauff gave her team a crucial point, all eyes shifted to Fritz’s match against Tomas Machac. The American faced an uphill battle in a tense encounter, with Machac leading 7-6(4), 5-3. It appeared the Czech player would soon level the tie, but in a dramatic twist, Machac, who had been struggling with cramps, retired from the match abruptly.
Despite being in a strong position, the physical strain proved too much for Machac, who had already been receiving treatment on his legs during the changeovers. His retirement handed Fritz a 6-7(4), 7-5, 1-0 win, and with it, the United States secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie.
Fritz acknowledged the tough conditions and Machac’s injury, admitting that he had anticipated the possibility of cramps affecting the match. The humidity in Sydney added an extra physical strain, making it clear that the match would be a battle of endurance.
Fritz, though, remained focused, serving well when it mattered and pouncing on Machac's faltering serve to stay in the match. The unfortunate injury to Machac, however, handed the US the victory.
With both Gauff and Fritz’s wins, the United States advanced to the final of the United Cup, where they will face Poland, a team that includes World No. 1 Iga Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz.
This sets up an exciting clash, with both sides featuring some of the world’s best players. The US team, which won the title two years ago, will be aiming to repeat their success, while Poland will be looking to make their mark with their star-studded lineup.
After the match, Fritz expressed his happiness at being back in the final, although he admitted that the way he won was not ideal. He was pleased with the team’s effort but noted that he would have preferred a more straightforward victory.
Gauff, meanwhile, was delighted with her performance and the role she played in setting up the win. Her ability to stay focused and maintain intensity throughout her match was key to the team's success.
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