Coco Gauff becomes youngest player to reach US Open quarter-finals since 2009

Coco Gauff said the reception she has received in New York is different to anything she has experienced before after defeating Zhang Shuai 7-5 7-5 on Sunday.

In a closely contested battle, Gauff was just a little too good, winning 52 per cent (91-of-176) of the total points, while creating 11 break point opportunities compared to nine for Zhang.

It continues a terrific run of form for the 18-year-old, who will break into the top 10 of the world rankings for the first time when it updates this coming week.

Speaking to the media after advancing to the quarter-finals, Gauff compared the atmosphere inside Arthur Ashe Stadium – where she has played every match this tournament – to an NBA game.

“It’s way different [to a normal tennis crowd],” she said. “On the 6-5 changeover, people were saying ‘let’s go, Coco’ – I was literally trying not to smile.

“I was, like, I’ve got to stay in the zone. Inside I was trying my hardest not to smile. This is a surreal moment for me – on Arthur Ashe Stadium and people are chanting my game. I feel like I’m at an NBA game.

“That’s a special thing about tennis. When you go to a football game or an NBA game, people are chanting the team’s name. That’s great as a player.

“For you to have the whole crowd chanting your name specifically is something I won’t take for granted.”

Youngest player since 2009 in quarters

Gauff’s victory makes her the youngest player to have reached the quarters at Flushing Meadows since Melanie Oudin in 2009.

Oudin, another American, was 17 at the time, and lost her last-eight tie to eventual runner-up Caroline Wozniacki.

A meeting with the in-form Caroline Garcia is scheduled for the quarter-final, and she said it is no secret that she is one of the hottest players on tour right now.

Gauff and Garcia have played twice before, with the American winning both matches against the Frenchwoman.