Coco Gauff to Face Sun Xinran in First Top 5 Junior Matchup in Beijing

Gauff first gained attention at 15 during the 2019 Wimbledon Championships, where she made an impressive run to the fourth round, including a victory over her idol, Venus Williams. Now, as a veteran on the WTA Tour, she's amassed 12 titles.

Sun, fresh off winning the US Open junior title, is making her WTA tour-level debut in her home country, garnering significant attention. In the opening rounds in Beijing, she defeated Eva Lys 6-1, 3-0 (ret.) and Cristina Bucsa 6-4, 7-5.

"I'm really, really happy to have this chance to play Coco Gauff because she's a Grand Slam champion," Sun said through a translator. "I've been watching her matches on TV, and this is a great opportunity through my efforts. I will try to do my best."

Despite her inexperience on the professional stage, Sun has impressed in her matches. She expressed nervousness before competing but focused on playing her best. "When I'm on the court, I think I'm not that bad and there is not such a big gap," she stated.

Gauff reflected on her early career, noting that newcomers often have less pressure as they are in uncharted territory. She advised Sun to manage expectations as she transitions from junior to professional play. "Remember that you're 17 years old; you're going to fail, you're going to succeed," Gauff said. "It's tough to lose, especially coming from juniors where you're used to winning. I think it's great for her to continue having a good tournament."