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Coco Gauff delivered one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 US Open, saving two match points before defeating Mirra Andreeva 2-6, 7-6(7), 6-2 in the women’s quarterfinals on September 9.
According to the official US Open match report, Gauff dropped the opening set, then survived two match points in the second-set tiebreak before taking control in the deciding set. The win sends the American into her second US Open semifinal.
How Gauff Turned the Match Around
The first set belonged to Andreeva, who controlled the early exchanges and forced Gauff into errors. Gauff’s level improved in the second set as she extended rallies, defended more effectively and kept the match from slipping away.
The defining moment came in the second-set tiebreak. Facing two match points, Gauff stayed alive and eventually took the breaker 9-7. Once the match reached a third set, momentum had shifted. Gauff’s speed and defense began creating longer points, while the pressure on Andreeva increased.
Why the Win Matters
The comeback adds another major escape to Gauff’s growing record in deciding sets. The official US Open noted that she has now won 20 of her last 24 three-set matches at Grand Slams dating to the start of 2023.
It also keeps alive a deep home-country run in New York. Gauff will next face Elena Rybakina, who secured the world No. 1 ranking with her own comeback quarterfinal victory.
What Comes Next
The semifinal presents a different challenge. Rybakina brings one of the most powerful serves and first-strike games on tour, while Gauff’s movement and defensive range can extend points that many opponents cannot.
For Gauff, the quarterfinal showed why survival matters as much as dominance at a Grand Slam. She was not at her best early, but she found a way to stay in the match long enough for the momentum to change.
Image note: featured image is generic tennis imagery and does not depict this match. Source verification: official 2026 US Open reporting.