Team USA delivered a nail-biting performance to secure their first win at the 2025 United Cup, overcoming Team Canada 2-1 in a dramatic mixed doubles match. Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz teamed up to defeat Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime and Leylah Fernandez in straight sets, 7-6(2), 7-5, during a late-night showdown in Perth.
Gauff Starts Strong with Dominant Singles Win
Coco Gauff kicked off the tie with an impressive victory in women’s singles, sweeping past Leylah Fernandez 6-3, 6-2. Displaying her trademark power and agility, the reigning WTA Finals champion showed why she’s a force to be reckoned with in 2025. “I’m super happy with how I played,” Gauff said. “Leylah can hit some crazy angles, so I just focused on playing my best shots.”
Gauff’s performance was marked by strong service games, winning 92% of her first serves and fending off all break points. Her court coverage and ability to turn defense into offense left Fernandez struggling to keep up.
Auger-Aliassime Levels the Tie
Felix Auger-Aliassime kept Canada’s hopes alive with a thrilling comeback in the men’s singles match. After dropping the first set to Taylor Fritz, Auger-Aliassime rallied to win 4-6, 7-5, 6-3. His tactical adjustments and fearless hitting turned the tide, breaking Fritz’s serve twice in the final set.
“It was a crazy night of tennis,” Auger-Aliassime said. “I had to change my approach and step in closer to dictate play. Thankfully, it worked.”
This victory marked Auger-Aliassime’s first win over Fritz in four head-to-head meetings, injecting energy into the Canadian camp.
Decisive Mixed Doubles Showdown
The tie culminated in a winner-takes-all mixed doubles match, with Gauff and Fritz facing Fernandez and Auger-Aliassime. The American duo demonstrated resilience, recovering from a break lead lost in both sets to clinch a 7-6(2), 7-5 victory.
“I’m really happy with how we played in the mixed,” Gauff said. “We kept improving as the match went on and executed when it mattered most.”
Fritz, eager to redeem himself after his singles loss, praised Gauff for her contribution. “Thank you, Coco, for carrying the team,” he said. “We got it done together.”
Despite their efforts, Fernandez and Auger-Aliassime couldn’t overcome the Americans. Fernandez showed flashes of brilliance, particularly with her serves, but Team USA’s determination ultimately prevailed.
What’s Next?
With this win, Team USA takes a commanding position in Group A, heading into their next match against Croatia. Meanwhile, Canada’s fate hinges on the outcome of USA’s clash with Croatia.
Canada Tennis FAQs
Canada’s Top Players in Focus
- Who are Canada’s key players in tennis? Canada’s stars include Felix Auger-Aliassime, Leylah Fernandez, and Bianca Andreescu. Each has achieved significant milestones in recent years.
How is Canada performing in the United Cup?
- What are Canada’s chances of advancing? Canada’s progression depends on the USA vs. Croatia match. A USA loss could give Canada a shot at the knockout stage.
Tennis Growth in Canada
- How is tennis evolving in Canada? Tennis is rapidly growing in popularity, thanks to the success of players like Auger-Aliassime and Fernandez. Grassroots programs are also expanding.
United Cup Explained
- What is the United Cup? The United Cup is a mixed-team tennis tournament featuring players from across the globe. It combines men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles matches in a unique format.
Canada’s spirited performance in Perth highlights the nation’s rising tennis prowess, even as Team USA takes the spotlight with a hard-fought victory.
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