Elise Mertens has pulled off one of the biggest wins of her China Open run, beating fourth-seeded Coco Gauff 6-3, 6-3 to reach the quarterfinals in Beijing.
The Belgian had never beaten Gauff in their previous five meetings, but she changed that record with a composed performance against the American, who struggled to find her rhythm throughout the match.
Gauff made 34 unforced errors and hit eight double faults as Mertens took control. The American also appeared to struggle physically during the second set, telling her team that she had “no energy” and felt like she was going to pass out.
The victory ended a 0-5 head-to-head record against Gauff and secured her first China Open quarterfinal in her seventh appearance at the tournament.
The win also gave Mertens her 10th career victory over a Top 5 player and her second such win of the 2026 season, following her victory over Elena Rybakina at Wimbledon.
After the match, Mertens dedicated the win to her boyfriend and coach.
“My coach/boyfriend, it’s his birthday tomorrow. So for me, this win is dedicated to him.”
Mertens will now look to continue her run in Beijing as she bids to reach the semifinals of a WTA 1000 event for the first time since Dubai in 2021.
