Paula Badosa earned her spot in the Berlin Open quarterfinals on Wednesday with a 1-6, 6-3, 6-2 comeback over fifth-seeded Coco Gauff. The win gives the Spanish player five victories in eight-career meetings against the US star.
The match was Gauff's first on grass this season, with Wimbledon less than two weeks away.
Coco Gauff Falters After Dominant Start in Berlin WTA 500 Battle
The world No. 7 looked sharp early, racing through the opening set 6-1 behind her baseline power and court coverage. But the surface seemed to catch up with her as the match wore on.
Gauff's first-serve percentage dropped in each set, and Badosa took full advantage, breaking twice in both the second and third frames.
The wildcard entry, meanwhile, found her footing on the grass court and started dictating rallies. The result is a turning point for Bardosa, who entered Berlin on a five-match losing streak.
"It’s been very tough. One year ago here I got injured. Since then I couldn’t play, like, constantly. I went through a lot professionally but also personally. Seeing myself again playing at this level means a lot for me," Badosa said after the win.
The Spaniard now faces either No. 13 seed Linda Noskova or French star Diane Parry in Berlin's next round.
