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American teenager Coco Gauff will play against unseeded Italian Martina Trevisan in the semi-finals of the French Open.
Gauff powered past compatriot Sloane Stephens 7-5 6-2 to book her semi-final spot in her biggest victory at a Grand Slam.
Coco Gauff of the US celebrates as she defeats Sloane Stephens.Credit:Thibault Camus
The 18-year-old, the youngest player left in the draw who was hit by a brief spell of nerves late in the game, will next play Trevisan for a place in Saturday’s final.
“I feel so happy right now. Words can’t explain it. Last year in the quarters was a tough loss and that made me stronger for moments like today,” 18th seed Gauff said after reaching her first semi-final at a major.
“Last time I played her (Stephens) I lost so I am happy it went differently today. I think it was a mental challenge today.”
Martina Trevisan of Italy celebrates after winning match point against Leylah Fernandez of Canada.Credit:Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Gauff, the youngest female player to reach multiple Grand Slam quarter-finals since 2007 after also reaching the French Open last eight in 2021, stormed to a 3-0 lead in a one-sided start to the all-American encounter.
With Gauff forcing the 29-year-old Stephens to the net with a string of well-executed drop shots and holding serve confidently, she cruised to a 5-2 lead.
Trevisan dumped US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez out of the French Open, beating the 17th seeded Canadian 6-2, 6-7 (3), 6-3.