Jessica Bouzas Maneiro pulled off probably the biggest win of her career so far after she defeated World No. 4 Coco Gauff 6-1, 6-7 (3), 6-0 at the 2026 United Cup. Although the match had some back-and-forth moments, the world no. 42 stayed calm and handed the defending champions a big setback in their title defense.
Jessica Bouzas Maneiro Hails Coco Gauff’s Fighter Mentality at United Cup 2026
Two-time Grand Slam winner Gauff came into the match as the favorite after an easy win over Argentina’s Solina Sierra in the tournament. But things didn’t look right for her from the very first game. Bouzas Maneiro broke Gauff, took control of the opening set, and scored a 5-0 lead in just over 20 minutes. Gauff managed to get on the board with a late break, but the Spaniard responded immediately to close out the set 6-1.
Gauff was struggling on serve once again in the second set. However, she fought her way back through the set to level things at 4-4 and pushed the match into a deciding third set. However, her momentum didn’t carry forward to the last set, as Bouzas Maneiro got a 5-0 lead and served out the match.
First Top 5 Win 🤩
Jessica Bouzas Maneiro powers past Gauff 6-1 6-7 6-0 in Perth! #UnitedCup pic.twitter.com/0O0B3Ab6aW
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) January 5, 2026
The Spaniard was happy with her overall performance. During the post-match interview, she said, “I’m really excited and really happy with my performance today. Coco is an amazing player. I knew it would be tough. I think I played really well for most of the match.”
When asked about her thoughts after Gauff took the second set, Bouzas Maneiro praised the “fighter” mentality of the American. “I know Coco. She’s a fighter. She’s there all the time in the match. I knew I have to be there. Even if I’m 4-1 up, I have to be there. You see she won the 2nd set.”
“I went to the bathroom. Tried to stay focused and stay point by point. That was my mentality in the 3rd set. To be with power every point. You know even if you’re 3-0 or 4-0 you have to be ready… especially with Coco who’s a fighter,” she added.
Gauff’s Serving Leaves USA in Trouble
One of the major highlights in the match was Gauff struggling on serve. It feels more concerning considering that the American star hired biomechanics coach Gavin MacMillan last year to fix her serve.
Gauff managed just one ace, was broken nine times, and had 14 double faults. She won only six of her 32 second-serve points, compared to Bouzas Maneiro’s 22 from 32. Gauff finished with just 10 winners and 54 unforced errors. Bouzas Maneiro, on the other hand, ended the match with 27 winners.
The loss also leaves the United States in a tough spot at the United Cup. After Taylor Fritz was beaten in his opening match, he now needs a win in his next match while dealing with his knee issues to keep the USA in the competition and set up a deciding mixed doubles match against Spain.
