Elina Svitolina delivered a masterclass performance at Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday, sweeping aside World No. 3 Coco Gauff 6-1, 6-2 to book her spot in the Australian Open semifinals.
In a contest lasting less than an hour, the 31-year-old Ukrainian showcased veteran poise to dismantle the two-time Grand Slam champion and continue her flawless start to the 2026 season.
A Clinical Display Under the Roof
With extreme heat forcing the roof closed, conditions were ripe for high-quality tennis, but it was one-way traffic from the start. Elina Svitolina executed a tactical gem of a match, absorbing Coco Gauff’s signature power and redirecting the ball with depth and precision.
While the American struggled to find her rhythm, Elina Svitolina capitalized on every opportunity, converting six out of seven break points.
Coco Gauff, usually a picture of consistency, appeared rattled early on. Plagued by serving woes, she committed five double faults in the opening stages and finished with a costly 26 unforced errors.
Despite desperate attempts to adjust—including sending racquets for restringing mid-match—Coco Gauff could not halt Elina Svitolina’s momentum.
Svitolina’s Return to the Top 10
The victory signals a major milestone for Elina Svitolina. Having returned to the tour in 2023 following maternity leave, this result ensures her return to the WTA Top 10 for the first time in five years.
It also extends her current winning streak to 10 matches, following her title run in Auckland earlier this month.
Semifinal Showdown Awaits
Elina Svitolina now prepares for a blockbuster clash against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
With both players in peak form, the upcoming semifinal promises to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated encounters as Elina Svitolina chases her first Grand Slam final appearance in Melbourne.
Saurabh is a passionate tennis content writer and lifelong fan of the game. Whether it’s Grand Slam showdowns or under-the-radar rising stars, Saurabh brings the court to life with sharp analysis, breaking news, and deep-dive features. When they aren’t covering matches, you can find them practicing their topspin forehand or debating who is the GOAT over coffee. Do you enjoy tennis? Then you are in the right place.
