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Coco Gauff Crashes Out of Australian Open, Smashes Racket

1/27/2026

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Coco Gauff was eliminated from the 2026 Australian Open quarterfinals by Elina Svitolina, 6-1, 6-2, in 59 minutes.
Gauff struggled with her serve, recording 26 unforced errors and five double faults.
Following the defeat, Gauff was filmed smashing her racket, an act she said should have remained private.
The defeat drops Gauff from No. 3 in the world, while Elina Svitolina advances to the semifinals.

History

Historical Context

The 1969 Australian Open marked a pivotal shift in tennis by becoming the first Grand Slam tournament to include professional players, following the Open Era's inception. Held in Brisbane, it featured Rod Laver, who won the men's singles title. This change intensified competition and set the stage for modern tennis, where athletes like Coco Gauff face heightened expectations and pressure.

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Story summary

Coco Gauff was eliminated from the 2026 Australian Open quarterfinals by Elina Svitolina, 6-1, 6-2, in 59 minutes.
Gauff struggled with her serve, recording 26 unforced errors and five double faults.
Following the defeat, Gauff was filmed smashing her racket, an act she said should have remained private.
The defeat drops Gauff from No. 3 in the world, while Elina Svitolina advances to the semifinals.

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