‘Never seen so many errors’: Fans stunned as Elena Rybakina beats Coco Gauff to reach US Open final

Tennis fans have reacted strongly after Elena Rybakina came from a set down to beat Coco Gauff 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 and reach her first US Open final.

Rybakina, who became world No. 1 just a day earlier, recovered after losing the opening set before breaking Gauff twice in the deciding set to seal the win.

The result sets up a huge final against Aryna Sabalenka, who defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 in the other semi-final. Sabalenka has won 20 consecutive matches at the US Open and leads Rybakina 10-7 in their head-to-head record.

Coco Gauff defeat sparks strong reaction from tennis fans

Gauff took control early, breaking Rybakina in the sixth game before serving out the opening set 6-3. However, Rybakina responded in the second, breaking for 3-1 and eventually forcing a deciding set.

The third set went back and forth before Rybakina finally created the decisive opening at 4-3. Gauff immediately broke back after Rybakina served for the match at 5-3, but the new world No. 1 responded again in the 10th game to complete the victory.

Fans were quick to focus on the number of errors during the contest, with one writing: "Never seen so many errors in one match"

Another supporter was critical of Gauff's recent form, posting: "Bad phase for Coco, has to gear up fast to stay relevant"

There was also plenty of praise for Rybakina, with one fan writing: "Congrats Elena! Cannot wait to see final- congrats on #1"

Another simply celebrated Gauff's defeat, saying: "Thank god, I thought Coco would never lose!"

One supporter compared Gauff's development to boxing heavyweight Deontay Wilder, writing:

"Coco needs a coach that will refine her skills instead of having her rely on pure athleticism. It's like Deontay Wilder in boxing."

Rybakina's level in the final two sets also drew praise ahead of the Sabalenka showdown:

"Sablenka can't beat Rybakina if Rybakina produce this much high level Technicall game like she did in 2&3 set."

Not everyone was convinced by Rybakina's performance, however: "Rybakina is the worst #1 I've ever seen: unforced errors galore, doesn't move well, doesn't volley well. Watching her play is infuriating."

And one final reaction summed up the excitement around the result: "Thank you. Tennis wins with this result. Proper tennis"

Rybakina will now face Sabalenka on Saturday with her first US Open title and another major milestone within reach.