In a captivating second-round match at the 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia, world No. 3 Coco Gauff faced a formidable challenge from 18-year-old Canadian qualifier Victoria Mboko. The Friday night showdown on Rome’s iconic clay courts showcased a battle of resilience, skill, and mutual respect, with Gauff ultimately prevailing 3-6, 6-2, 6-1 after one hour and 43 minutes of intense play. The match not only highlighted Gauff’s championship pedigree but also signaled Mboko’s arrival as a rising force in women’s tennis.
The opening set saw Mboko, ranked No. 156, stun the Foro Italico crowd with her fearless aggression. The Canadian teenager broke Gauff’s serve four times, capitalizing on the American’s early errors, including a series of double faults. Mboko’s powerful groundstrokes and confident play belied the 153-ranking gap between the two, as she claimed the first set 6-3. Gauff later reflected on the challenge, noting, “It was tough finding, like, my rhythm. I find the conditions are so much slower than Madrid. I felt it was impossible to hit a winner.” Her words underscored the tactical adjustments required on Rome’s heavy clay, particularly under the night session’s cooler conditions.
As the second set began, Gauff, a former US Open champion, recalibrated her approach. She drastically reduced her unforced errors and seized control by breaking Mboko’s serve in all four of her service games. The American’s defensive prowess, a hallmark of her game, shone through as she turned the tables, winning the set 6-2. Gauff’s adaptability was evident as she leaned into her experience, having reached the Rome semi-finals in 2021 and 2024. “Obviously the last two sets were a lot better,” Gauff said, acknowledging her improved performance after a shaky start.
The decisive third set saw Gauff dominate, winning six consecutive games to seal the victory. Her focus sharpened, and her double faults vanished, allowing her to showcase the aggressive forehand she’s worked to refine. Mboko, despite the scoreline, remained a threat, converting six of seven break points across the match. Gauff praised her opponent’s tenacity, stating, “Victoria played great tennis. Like the ranking difference looks different, but she’s playing top-level tennis. I approached the match that way.” The comment reflected Gauff’s respect for Mboko, whose 33-3 record in 2025, including five ITF titles, has marked her as a player to watch.
Mboko’s journey to this high-profile clash was no small feat. The Toronto native earned her spot in the main draw through qualifying, defeating top-100 players Cristina Bucsa and Kamilla Rakhimova before dispatching Italian wildcard Arianna Zucchini 6-2, 6-3 in the first round. Her performance against Gauff, her first match against a top-10 opponent, showcased a maturity that captivated fans. “I felt like I was playing myself,” Gauff remarked, drawing parallels between Mboko’s fearless style and her own breakthrough as a 15-year-old at Wimbledon in 2019.
Beyond the on-court drama, Gauff’s appearance in Rome turned heads with her fashion-forward New Balance x Miu Miu kit. The navy and white sleeveless dress, accented with red and paired with white and silver sneakers, embodied the tournament’s vibrant aesthetic. The collaboration, set for a limited release in September, underscored Gauff’s growing influence off the court.
Post-match, Gauff’s sportsmanship shone through. During the handshake, she offered Mboko words of encouragement, saying, “Keep your head up, okay? You did great.” The gesture, captured by microphones, resonated with fans and highlighted the camaraderie between the two young stars. Gauff later elaborated, “I didn’t know much about [Mboko] before, but I’ve been following her since Miami. I think she’s a great player. I knew it was going to be a tough match.”
For Mboko, the loss was a stepping stone. Having surged from No. 333 to No. 137 in the WTA rankings this year, her performance in Rome will boost her confidence as she eyes bigger stages. Gauff, meanwhile, advances to the third round, carrying momentum from her recent Madrid Open final appearance. As she prepares for her next challenge, the 21-year-old remains a favorite to contend for the title, building on her strong Rome record.
This electrifying encounter not only delivered thrilling tennis but also offered a glimpse into the sport’s future. With Gauff’s established brilliance and Mboko’s fearless ascent, the WTA is poised for more unforgettable battles in the years to come.
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