When Does Coco Gauff Play at the US Open: Schedule and Where to Watch the Match Against Ajla Tomljanović
The U.S. Open has always had a special relationship with young American stars, and once again, all eyes are on Coco Gauff. At just 20 years old, Gauff has already become more than just a rising star—she’s now one of the main attractions in New York. Her dynamic energy, fearless shot-making, and charisma have placed her at the center of the American tennis story. Now, as the U.S. Open unfolds, the spotlight turns to her highly anticipated clash with Australia’s Ajla Tomljanović.
When and Where Gauff Plays
Coco Gauff is scheduled to play Ajla Tomljanović in the night session at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday, August 26, 2024. The match will not start before 7:00 p.m. ET (depending on the length of earlier matches). Arthur Ashe, the largest tennis stadium in the world, has seen its fair share of legends, and Gauff will step onto that same stage carrying the expectations of a nation.
For fans around the globe, the match will be broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN2 in the United States, with streaming available via ESPN+ and the ESPN app. Tennis Channel International will carry the match for international viewers, and for those on the go, live scoring and updates will be available through the official U.S. Open app.
The Stakes for Gauff
For Gauff, this isn’t just another first-round encounter. It’s a test of maturity and resilience against an experienced player who knows how to navigate the pressures of big moments. Tomljanović, who famously defeated Serena Williams in her emotional farewell at the 2022 U.S. Open, has a knack for playing spoiler on tennis’ brightest stages. That history will not be lost on Gauff as she prepares to walk into the cauldron of Ashe.
Gauff arrives in New York ranked inside the top 5 in the world, carrying momentum from a summer that has been both promising and challenging. She made deep runs at Cincinnati and Washington, showcasing flashes of brilliance but also exposing areas—particularly her serve—that remain a work in progress. She has spoken openly about the need to cut down on double faults and tighten her mechanics, even bringing in a biomechanical coach to address those concerns.
Still, Gauff is entering this tournament with the confidence of a player who knows she belongs. She’s not just playing for a breakthrough; she’s playing to win the whole thing.
The Challenge in Tomljanović
Ajla Tomljanović may not have the ranking of a top-tier contender, but she is a dangerous floater in the draw. Known for her gritty baseline game and competitive fire, the 31-year-old Australian thrives in matches where pressure swings from one side to the other. Injuries have slowed her progress in recent years, but when healthy, she has proven she can stand toe-to-toe with the best.
Her victory over Serena Williams in 2022 is etched into U.S. Open history, and she will enter this match believing she can once again silence the crowd and upset a favorite.
What to Expect
The matchup pits Gauff’s explosive athleticism and defensive prowess against Tomljanović’s consistency and counterpunching. Expect long rallies, big momentum shifts, and a crowd firmly in Gauff’s corner. If Gauff can keep her serve steady and cut down on unforced errors, her speed and aggressive forehand should be enough to tilt the match her way. But if Tomljanović drags the battle into long, grinding exchanges, the pressure could mount quickly for the young American.
Why This Match Matters
For American tennis fans, Gauff has become the face of the next generation. With Serena and Venus Williams no longer competing, the hunger for a homegrown champion at the U.S. Open is palpable. Every time Gauff steps onto the court in New York, it feels like an event—not just a match. The stakes are higher, the lights are brighter, and the roar of Ashe seems louder.
Monday night will be no exception. Gauff knows she’s carrying more than just her racket into the arena—she’s carrying the hope of a nation that believes she can be the one to bring glory back to American tennis.
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