Coco Gauff’s 2024 season has been a rollercoaster ride so far. Despite an impressive win at the ASB Classic and a semi-final appearance at the Australian Open, she has managed only one other semi-final finish in five tournaments. As the French Open 2024 approaches, Gauff needs to find her rhythm.
Allegations of preferential treatment by the WTA Tour and tournament organizers have also plagued Gauff, adding to her challenges. The Madrid Open 2024 presents another potential hurdle with a tricky draw. A potential semi-final clash against World No.1 Iga Swiatek could unsettle the 20-year-old.
Gauff’s journey in Madrid begins with a first-round bye. She will face Arantxa Rus in the second round, a match she is expected to navigate. Dayana Yastremska could be her next opponent in the third round, which, if she wins, will be her best performance ever in Madrid.
Assuming she overcomes these challenges, Gauff could face compatriot Madison Keys or Liudmila Samsonova in the fourth round. A victory here could set up a quarterfinal encounter against Jelena Ostapenko.
However, the biggest test for Gauff will likely come in the semifinals against Iga Swiatek. The American has struggled against the Polish star in the past, winning only one out of their 10 meetings. On clay courts, her record against Swiatek is even worse, with three losses in as many matches.
Should Gauff upset Swiatek, she will find herself in her second final of the year. However, Elena Rybakina, in sublime form, is likely to emerge from the bottom half of the draw as her potential opponent. While Rybakina is the favorite, a clash between these two sensational talents promises to be an entertaining spectacle.
