Coco Gauff is into the second round after the defending champion crushed Varvara Gracheva 6-2 6-0 on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Gauff was in no mood to hang around as the American produced a sizzling display to thrash Gracheva in straight sets.
After a semi-complicated start, Gauff broke for a 2-1 lead in the opening set and never looked back as her title defence continues into the second round.
In her post-match interview Gauff acknowledged the pressure that comes with being a defending champion, “There’s definitely a lot of pressure this tournament but I’m just enjoying it,” Gauff was quoted by the BBC Sport website as saying.
“Last year was incredible so I’m just bringing those vibes – whatever happens, happens. It’s an honour to be back on Arthur Ashe playing in front of you guys.
“If I played this last week I feel like it would be really difficult, but my perspective has changed a lot over seven days. I was just trying to enjoy the match. I enjoyed it today and obviously it was straightforward, but even if it was tighter these are the moments you live for. I am just happy to be back on this court and playing like I did.
“I know the last few weeks have been a little bit tough and I think this has been the best tennis I have played in a while.”
Next for the world number three will be former Wimbledon semi-finalist Tatjana Maria.
Also in Gauff’s section of the draw is Elina Svitolina and the 27th seed was forced to dig deep in order to defeat Maria Carle 3-6 6-3 6-4 in three thrilling sets.
A massive test survived for Svitolina who will now face Anhelina Kalinina in second round, who defeated Oceane Dodin in three sets.
In other big results Qinwen Zheng managed to survive a tough scare against Toronto finalist Amanda Anisimova 4-6 6-4 6-2 and the Olympic gold medallist will face Erika Andreeva next.
Meanwhile there were also wins for Donna Vekic and Daria Kasatkina on day one of the US Open.
Injury Sends Sakkari Home
However the big story is that Maria Sakkari was forced to retire from her opening round match against Yafan Wang.
The Greek struggled with a neck and shoulder injury as she lost the first set 6-2 before deciding enough was enough.
It’s a result which means Sakkari has only won three Grand Slam matches all season.
As for Wang, she will face Diane Parry in the second round on Wednesday.
