When Russian Potapova and American Gauff made an appearance at Louis Armstrong Stadium in the US Open's first round, it was a meeting between two promising players from the next generation.
Both players were born in the 2000s, and that they also represent each of their great powers contributes to a reinforced symbolism.
- It was crazy, of course. I was nervous about going out on the pitch. It's so big. And my "home (grand) slam", so I wanted to play well, says the American after the victory according to the US Open site.
"Don't remember that much"
In addition, both combatants looked to offer an exciting fight. Potapova took home the first set with 6-3, while Gauff struck back in the second with 6-2. In the decisive set, Gauff drew to 4-1, but then released several games and allowed the Russian to acknowledge.
- Frankly, I don't remember as much of the game as everything is still blurry. But I remember that through the match as a whole, it was a lot of struggle, ”says Gauff.
In the end, however, it was the US star shot, which broke through in Wimbledon earlier this year, which drew the longest straw by 4-6, and is on to the second round.
There, Gauff meets Hungarian Timea Babos, who is a sharp doubles player but ranked 112th in singles.