Coco Gauff Advances to Miami Open Fourth Round After Injury Scare
London, 23 March 2026 – World No. 4 Coco Gauff has battled through injury concerns and a determined opponent to secure her place in the fourth round of the Miami Open. The American star, competing on home soil, rallied from a set down to defeat compatriot Alycia Parks 3-6, 6-0, 6-1 in a third-round clash that showcased her resilience. The victory sets up a last-16 encounter with Romania’s Sorana Cîrstea later today.
Overcoming Adversity
Gauff’s participation in the tournament was in doubt after a “scary” nerve issue in her left arm forced her to retire from her third-round match at Indian Wells earlier this month. The 22-year-old described the sensation as feeling like a “firework going off” in her arm. Despite her team’s advice to skip the Miami Open to recover, Gauff insisted on playing, citing the event’s significance on her “bucket list.” After undergoing an MRI scan, she has provided optimistic updates, stating the injury is “getting better,” though experts like former champion Andy Roddick have expressed concern over the nature of the ailment.
Path to the Fourth Round
Gauff’s campaign in Miami began shakily. In her opening match, she dropped the first set to Italy’s Elisabetta Cocciaretto before recovering to win 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. Her serving was inconsistent, with 11 double faults. However, she found her rhythm emphatically against Parks. After losing the first set, Gauff dominated the remainder of the match, winning 12 of the final 13 games in a display of powerful baseline hitting and improved movement. The win also marked a career milestone, equalling Caroline Wozniacki’s record of 103 WTA match wins before turning 23.
Key Facts: Coco Gauff
As the American continues her 2026 season, here is a snapshot of her career profile.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Age | 22 (Born 13 March 2004) |
| Height | 5′ 9″ (1.75m) |
| Plays | Right-Handed |
| Career-High Ranking | World No. 2 (Singles), World No. 1 (Doubles) |
| Career Singles Titles | 11 |
| Grand Slam Titles | 1 (2023 US Open) |
| Career Prize Money | $31+ million |
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury is Coco Gauff managing?
Gauff is recovering from a nerve-related issue in her left arm that caused her to retire at Indian Wells. She has described the pain as sudden and sharp, like a “firework,” but has stated it is improving ahead of her Miami Open matches.
Who will Coco Gauff play next in Miami?
Following her win over Alycia Parks, Gauff is scheduled to face Romanian player Sorana Cîrstea in the fourth round of the Miami Open on 23 March 2026.
How many titles has Coco Gauff won?
According to her career statistics, Coco Gauff has won eleven WTA Tour singles titles. Her most significant victory came at the 2023 US Open, where she claimed her first Grand Slam championship.