Coco Gauff Aims to Recapture Magic at U.S. Open Amidst Intense Competition

American star Coco Gauff starts her title defence at the U.S. Open, facing a tough women's field including Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka. Gauff hopes to overcome previous disappointments with rigorous training, while Sabalenka and Swiatek look to capitalize on their own recent successes. The tournament kicks off Monday.

American star Coco Gauff will begin her title defense at the U.S. Open on Monday, facing France's Varvara Gracheva in the opening round at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Gauff headlines a competitive women's field, including world number one Iga Swiatek and last year's runner-up Aryna Sabalenka.

After struggling in recent tournaments in Toronto and Cincinnati, Gauff hopes to regain her form through intensive training. 'I feel like it was a blessing in disguise I lost early (in Cincinnati), because I was able to actually train,' she said. Gauff faces possible semi-final competition from Sabalenka, who reached that stage over the last three years.

Sabalenka skipped Wimbledon due to injury but feels confident after winning the Cincinnati tune-up. Meanwhile, Swiatek aims for another title after a successful year, despite challenges transitioning from clay to hard courts. The U.S. Open promises intense matchups with contenders like Jasmine Paolini and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen adding to the excitement.

(With inputs from agencies.)