In a remarkable display of resilience, Coco Gauff recovered from a bout of illness, which included vomiting on the court, to defeat Sorana Cirstea in a tightly contested Mutua Madrid Open match. The French Open champion, who was a finalist in Madrid last year, fought back from a set and a break down to win 4-6, 7-5, 6-1.
Gauff's victory was all the more impressive given the physical struggles she faced, which prompted her to call for medical assistance during the second set. The win sets up a fourth-round encounter with Linda Noskova, who advanced to the next round after her opponent, Liudmila Samsonova, withdrew due to illness. Gauff's triumph is a testament to her determination and grit, as she aims to push through the challenges posed by the 'Madrid Open virus bug' that has affected several players, including Iga Swiatek, Marin Cilic, and Madison Keys.