Gauff, the 2023 US Open champion, faced a stern test from Tomljanovic, a 32-year-old veteran who famously ended Serena Williams’ career at this tournament in 2022. The match was a rollercoaster, with Gauff’s serve—long a focal point due to her 320 double faults this season—showing signs of improvement under new biomechanical specialist Gavin MacMillan. Despite dropping the second set in a tiebreak, Gauff rallied in the third, overcoming a late break to seal the victory with a pinpoint backhand pass. Her 10 double faults were a manageable tally for a three-hour match, and her 21-4 record in Grand Slam first rounds remains intact.
Osaka, a two-time US Open champion (2018, 2020), displayed her trademark power and newfound consistency under the guidance of Tomasz Wiktorowski, formerly Iga Swiatek’s coach. Locked at 3-3 in the first set against Minnen, Osaka adjusted her game plan, incorporating more topspin as advised by Wiktorowski, to dominate the closing games. Her serving was flawless, with seven aces and no double faults, and she converted all six break-point opportunities. For Osaka, who spent her early childhood on Long Island, the US Open feels like a homecoming. “This tournament embodies New York—loud, busy, and special,” she said post-match, reflecting on her journey from watching in the stands to competing on the main stage.
Both players share remarkable parallels: they honed their craft in Florida, boast multiple Grand Slam titles (Gauff with two, Osaka with four), and have claimed three of the last seven US Open titles between them. At 21, they reached their second majors, and their flair for fashion adds a vibrant dimension to their on-court presence. This season, Gauff’s Roland Garros triumph and Osaka’s Montreal final highlight their resurgence, with new coaches sharpening their games. Gauff’s work with MacMillan, credited for fixing Aryna Sabalenka’s serve, has already smoothed her forehand, while Osaka’s collaboration with Wiktorowski is yielding greater control.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes are on a potential Gauff-Osaka fourth-round clash, a matchup that would blend athleticism, power, and star appeal. For now, both players are focused on the next step, with Gauff relieved to have survived a “tough” opener and Osaka relishing her return to a tournament steeped in personal significance. Their performances on Tuesday night underscored why they remain among the WTA’s elite, setting the stage for more drama at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.