Coco Gauff vs. Qinwen Zheng: Italian Open Semifinal Preview
Coco Gauff is riding a wave of momentum into the Italian Open semifinals. After reaching the final at the Madrid Open just weeks ago—where she was defeated by World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka—the American star now has a second shot at her first WTA title of the season. Standing in her way is China’s Qinwen Zheng, who has also shown impressive form lately. The two will clash on Thursday in what promises to be a gripping semifinal in Rome.
<strong>Gauff’s Journey in 2025 So Far</strong>
Gauff’s season has had its ups and downs. While she made it to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open in January, she struggled in the following tournaments. She suffered early exits in Qatar, Dubai, Indian Wells, and Miami. However, her form took a positive turn at the Stuttgart Open, where she reached the quarterfinals, and then in Madrid, where she made the final but lost to Sabalenka in straight sets (6-3, 7-6).
Now in Rome, Gauff appears to be regaining top form. She began her campaign with a comeback win over Victoria Mboko, dropping the first set before winning 3-6, 6-2, 6-1. In subsequent rounds, she defeated Magda Linette and then British star Emma Raducanu in dominant fashion (6-1, 6-2). In the quarterfinals, she overcame rising star Mirra Andreeva in straight sets (6-4, 7-6).
<strong>Zheng’s 2025 Performance</strong>
Zheng’s season started on shaky ground. She suffered early exits at the Australian Open, Qatar Open, and Dubai. But her form began improving during the North American swing, where she made it to the quarterfinals in Indian Wells, Miami, and Charleston. A surprising early loss in Madrid seemed like a setback, but Zheng quickly bounced back.
In Rome, Zheng has been solid. She opened with a straightforward win over Olga Danilovic, then beat Magdalena Frech and Bianca Andreescu to reach the quarterfinals. Her biggest win came in the QF, where she stunned Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets (6-4, 6-3), marking her first-ever win over the World No.1.
<strong>Head-to-Head Record</strong>
Gauff and Zheng have faced each other twice on the WTA tour. Gauff leads the series 2-0. Their last meeting was at the 2024 WTA Finals in Riyadh, where Gauff won a close contest (3-6, 6-4, 7-6). Prior to that, they met in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Italian Open, with Gauff winning comfortably (7-6, 6-1).
<strong>Playing Style Breakdown</strong>
Gauff’s game revolves around her strong serve, aggressive groundstrokes, and excellent court coverage. She’s comfortable attacking at the net and defending at the baseline. Zheng, by contrast, is known for her aggressive baseline play, powered by a strong forehand and a big serve. She’s particularly dangerous when she finds rhythm in rallies.
<strong>Match Prediction</strong>
Given their recent performances and Gauff’s winning record against Zheng, the American enters the match as the favorite. Gauff’s consistency on clay this season, combined with her past success in Rome, gives her a slight edge. However, Zheng’s upset over Sabalenka signals she’s playing at her peak and shouldn’t be underestimated.
Expect a tight contest, but Gauff is predicted to win in three sets, extending her head-to-head lead and possibly earning her place in another final this season.