Coco Gauff Forced to Step Away After Controversy and China Open Defeat

Coco Gauff's 2026 China Open campaign ended in a straight-sets loss to Elise Mertens, with Gauff dropping the first set 6-3. The defeat came amid significant controversy and backlash surrounding an incident in a previous match at the tournament. Gauff subsequently announced she would be stepping away following the difficult period in Beijing.