The WTA quarterfinals at the Italian Open delivered contrasting narratives on Tuesday, with Coco Gauff and Sorana Cirstea booking their spots in the last four.
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Gauff's clash with Mirra Andreeva lived up to its billing. The 19-year-old Russian seized control early, winning 73% of her service points in the first set compared to Gauff's 57%. The American looked rattled, struggling to match her opponent's intensity.
A different Gauff emerged in the second set. By increasing return depth and extending baseline rallies, the world number 3 broke twice early to lead 3-1 and cruised through 6-2 without looking back.
The decider produced drama worthy of the occasion. Andreeva broke first, but Gauff responded by stepping closer to the baseline on returns, triggering a double break that swung the set from 0-1 to 3-1. The American then converted her fifth match point in a gruelling 20-point game to prevail 4-6, 6-2, 6-4, reaching the Rome semifinals for the third consecutive year.
The other quarterfinal was far more straightforward. Sorana Cirstea, 36, continued her dream run after stunning Sabalenka in the third round. The Romanian dismantled Jelena Ostapenko 6-1 in a one-sided opener before sealing victory with a flawless 7-6(0) tiebreak, winning all seven points.
Wednesday's semifinals promise fireworks. Iga Swiatek faces Jessica Pegula in the day session, while Elena Rybakina takes on Elina Svitolina in the evening. The final four is taking shape at the Foro Italico.
