Coco Gauff defeats Belinda Bencic, advances to Madrid Open quarterfinals

Coco Gauff delivered a commanding performance to defeat Belinda Bencic 6-4, 6-2 in the Madrid Open round of 16, marking her first quarterfinal appearance at this tournament. Gauff showcased an improved serve, winning a high percentage of first-serve points and limiting errors, which contrasted with previous struggles. The American avenged a recent loss to Bencic at Indian Wells and will next face Mirra Andreeva, who also advanced with a strong showing. This quarterfinal matchup will be their third career meeting, with Gauff having won both of their prior encounters in 2023, though Andreeva has since risen in the rankings. Gauff's progress to this stage follows earlier victories over Dayana Yastremska and Ann Li, while Bencic had notable wins in earlier rounds but couldn't overcome Gauff's consistency. Gauff expressed confidence about her clay-court game and acknowledged Bencic as a tough opponent, noting the different playing styles between them.