Wuhan Open, China
It was a day of mixed results for the Americans. Six Americans started the day with hopes of progressing to the next round and potentially winning the tournament. At the end of the day there were only two remaining: Venus Williams and Coco Vandeweghe. Williams, the veteran, had a much easier match in comparison to Vandeweghe. Julia Goerges had a break lead in the first set but could not consolidate it. It was a good effort from Goerges, but she was bested time and again by the power from Williams. Although she hung in there, it was only a matter of time before Williams wore her down. The score belies the effort from Goerges, who had opportunities to break and take the lead. However, as we have often seen, if you fail to capitalize on those chances, you will inevitably rue those missed opportunities. Williams won 6-4, 6-3 and gained her 700th career singles match victory.
[CR24] Venus Williams (USA) def. [CR56] Julia Goerges (GER)
Coco Vandeweghe’s game is based on power. She always goes for her shots, which is good; however, a little restraint every once in a while may be prudent. Thirteen double faults and a slew of unforced errors reinforce the argument for her to occasionally change her tactics. However, sometimes it’s not a lack of willingness to change, but an inability to do so. They met once before, last year at this same tournament, and Caroline Garcia got the better of Vandeweghe in two easy sets. Today was a much different match for both players. It was not as easy a victory for Vandeweghe, who had no desire to lose once again to Garcia. Vandeweghe got off to a promising start, winning the first set 6-3. Yet, a match is never over until the last point is won and Garcia put up a fight, determined to wrestle the match away from Vandeweghe. It was a battle to the very end, but Vandeweghe managed to squeak out the victory 6-3, 6-7(7), 7-6(6).
[CR49] Coco Vandeweghe (USA) def. [CR39] Caroline Garcia (FRA)
