Coco Gauff has drawn strong support at the China Open in Beijing as she advanced to the quarterfinals, with one especially devoted supporter, a fan named Hans, standing out in the crowd.
The world No. 3, who won the tournament in 2024, has strung together three consecutive victories this week to reach the last eight for the third straight year. Her latest win came in three sets over Belinda Bencic in the fourth round on Tuesday after dropping the opening set.
Support from Fans
Fans have responded with nicknames, homemade signs and a stream of gifts, including stuffed animals and a spoon-and-fork set engraved with her face. Hans has been present from the opening day, bringing items such as music CDs, a themed poster and a letter.
His efforts extend beyond his own mementos. Other supporters who couldn’t attend have asked him to collect autographs and deliver items, and he has taken on that role with enthusiasm. This sense of community among Gauff’s fans highlights the strong connection she has cultivated with her supporters throughout her career.
Gauff will face Eva Lys next. The world No. 66 is into her first WTA 1000 quarterfinal and earned her first victory over a Top 10 opponent this week by upsetting Elena Rybakina. The match is expected to be an exciting showdown as both players aim for a spot in the semifinals.
With the win over Bencic, Gauff became the third player to qualify for the season-ending WTA Finals in Riyadh, joining Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek. This achievement solidifies her status as a rising star in women’s tennis and showcases her determination to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
As the tournament progresses, fans are eager to see how Gauff will perform against Lys, and many are confident that she will continue to impress on her path toward potential victory at the China Open.