Start time, TV schedule vs Donna Vekic

Coco Gauff is currently in the spotlight as she navigates her way through the 2025 U.S. Open, seeking her second Grand Slam title. After a hard-fought victory against Australia’s Ajla Tomljanovic in the first round, Gauff is set to face Donna Vekic in the second round. As fans and analysts alike turn their attention to this matchup, it’s essential to discuss the implications, schedules, and the current form of both players.

Coco Gauff, seeded third in the tournament, is riding a wave of momentum despite some challenges. Her opening match against Tomljanovic showcased her resilience; she won with scores of 6-4, 6-7 (2-7), and 7-5 in a grueling match that lasted nearly three hours. This first-round encounter tested not only Gauff’s physical stamina but also her mental fortitude. Gauff’s performance was marked by inconsistency in serving—landing four aces but also tallying 10 double faults. Furthermore, she made a staggering 59 unforced errors in the match. These statistics highlight the areas she needs to improve, particularly as she prepares to meet Vekic.

Donna Vekic, who is ranked No. 49 in the world, presents a formidable challenge for Gauff. The Croatian player had a solid first-round performance, overcoming Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in three sets (3-6, 7-5, 6-3). Though Vekic has struggled in the rankings after peaking at a career-high of No. 17, her experience and expertise cannot be overlooked. Her best performance in a Grand Slam event came during the 2024 Wimbledon, where she reached the semifinals, and she has also been a quarterfinalist at the 2019 U.S. Open.

In their past encounters, Gauff and Vekic have split their meetings. Gauff triumphed in straight sets during the United Cup in January of this year, while Vekic claimed victory during the 2024 Olympics in Paris. This history adds a layer of intrigue to their upcoming match, making it critical for Gauff to remain focused and vigilant.

Match Scheduling and Viewing Options
Coco Gauff’s second-round match against Donna Vekic is set for Thursday, August 28, with the start time scheduled for 7 p.m. at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Fans can catch all the action on ESPN2, with additional coverage beginning at 11:30 a.m. ET on ESPN, switching to ESPN2 later in the day. Streaming is also available on platforms like Fubo and the ESPN app for subscribers.

If Gauff wins against Vekic, she will move on to face either 28th-seeded Magdalena Frech or Peyton Stearns in the third round on Saturday, August 30, which is also scheduled to be broadcast on ESPN2. This potential trajectory paints an ambitious path for Gauff as she continues her pursuit of another Grand Slam title.

Analyzing the Odds
As of August 27, Gauff’s odds to win the U.S. Open are tied for the third-best at +900, which is reflective of her talent and recent form. For her matchup against Vekic, Gauff is heavily favored at -750, indicating confidence from sportsbooks in her ability to advance.

Given the mental and physical toll that Gauff exhibited in her first match, these odds serve as both an encouragement and a pressure point. While she possesses the skill to overcome Vekic, there is a considerable amount of expectation that comes with being a favorite in a high-stakes environment.

Implications on Career Trajectory
Gauff, who is just 21 years old, has already made a significant impact on the world of tennis. Winning the 2023 U.S. Open and the 2025 French Open has solidified her status as one of the upcoming stars in women’s tennis. However, her recent struggles since winning in Paris—including four losses from her last nine matches—indicate a need for continued development in her game, particularly in managing pressure and adjusting her playing style.

The pressure is also growing for Gauff as she seeks a second U.S. Open title. She has shown that she is capable of competing against the best in the world, yet the road to the finals is paved with challenges. With each match, the scrutiny intensifies, making it crucial for her to remain grounded and focused.

Conclusion
As Coco Gauff prepares for her showdown against Donna Vekic, the anticipation surrounding the match brings with it questions of competitive intensity, strategy, and mental resilience. The stakes couldn’t be higher for the young American star, who looks to prove her status as a championship contender while navigating the unpredictable landscape of the U.S. Open.

In conclusion, this upcoming match is more than a simple pairing of two athletes; it is a crossroads for Gauff as she considers her legacy and the potential for further accolades in her shaping career. With the right support, focus, and performance, Gauff aims not just to advance in the tournament but to reaffirm her stature as a formidable player in women’s tennis.

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