Coco Gauff Advances to China Open Semifinals

Coco Gauff advanced to the semifinals of the China Open after defeating Ukrainian qualifier Yuliia Starodubtseva 2-6, 6-2, 6-2, despite a slow start in the match. Gauff, who has faced challenges recently including a coaching change, will next face Paula Badosa, who defeated China's Zhang Shuai in straight sets, 6-1, 7-6 (4), ending Zhang's surprising run in the tournament. Badosa's victory marks her continued resurgence, with 28 wins in her last 35 matches dating back to May. Zhang, ranked No. 595 and on a 24-match losing streak, made headlines by reaching the quarterfinals without dropping a set until her match against Badosa. Both players are now vying for a spot in the finals, with Gauff aiming for her eighth singles title.