Coco Gauff is off to a dominant start to her 2026 campaign after annihilating Solana Sierra 6-1 6-1 in just 57 minutes at the United Cup.
Earlier today, American world No. 6 Taylor Fritz suffered a shock three-set defeat to 45th-ranked Sebastian Baez in the opening match of the United States and Argentina tie.
Since the United States entered as heavy favorites against Argentina, the expectation was that Gauff would have a chance to seal the tie for her nation when she took on Sierra. But instead, the top-ranked American female tennis player had to beat the 66th-ranked Argentine so her nation would force a deciding mixed doubles match.
Fortunately for the American team, Gauff looked sharp right from the start and won the opening five games before serving out for the opener in the seventh game. Just like she started the first set, the American also went 5-0 in the second set. The world No. 3 failed to complete a bagel on her serve in the sixth game, but remained focused and broke Sierra once again in the following game to complete a dominant two-set win.
Order restored ⚖️@CocoGauff defeats Sierra 6-1 6-1 to level things up for Team USA against Team Argentina. pic.twitter.com/MLAhZvlz3R
— United Cup (@UnitedCupTennis) January 3, 2026
Now, the reigning French Open champion is expected to team up with Fritz against Maria Lourdes Carle and Guido Andreozzi.
What Gauff said before facing Sierra?
The former world No. 2 sounded very cautious before her first meeting against 21-year-old Sierra.
"I think it's always tricky playing someone you never played before. So I guess I'll just take it match by match. I haven't really looked forward to Jessica's match next, because it's next. But for Solana, I know she can serve well. I haven't played her. Feisty player, so I know I have to compete for each point," Gauff said before the match.
