Wimbledon 2023: Coco Gauff Overcomes Spirited British Qualifier Sonay Kartal to Reach Fourth Round
(June 30, 2023 – Wimbledon, UK) World No. 2 Coco Gauff displayed her championship pedigree as she navigated past British qualifier Sonay Kartal in the Wimbledon third round. The 19-year-old American prevailed 6-4, 6-0 under the roof at Court One, setting up a last-16 clash with compatriot Emma Navarro.
Kartal, the world No. 298, gave Gauff a stern test in the opening set, matching the second seed’s power and variety. The 22-year-old from Brighton, who was the first British qualifier to reach the women’s third round at Wimbledon since 1997, even broke back to level the set at 4-4. However, Gauff raised her game at the crucial moment, winning the next two games to clinch the opener.
“She was playing at a high level and wasn’t giving me much to work with,” admitted Gauff. “Sonay mixes up her variety and didn’t let me settle. I felt I was going for the right shots but just missing. Eventually, I found them and was able to win.”
The turning point came when Gauff’s backhand, initially called long, was overturned by Hawk-Eye, allowing her to break for 5-4. From there, the American took control, racing through the second set without surrendering a game to secure her place in the fourth round.
Kartal’s inspiring run at the All England Club has been one of the standout stories of Wimbledon 2023. The British youngster, who has faced injury and illness setbacks in her career, will take immense pride in her accomplishments this fortnight.
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