• Coco Gauff defeats Leylah Fernandez in straight sets to reach the fourth round of the Australian Open.
• Gauff has not dropped a set this season, extending her winning streak to 12 matches.
• Naomi Osaka retires from her match against Belinda Bencic due to an abdominal injury.

In a stunning display of skill, Coco Gauff cemented her status as a top contender at the Australian Open by handily defeating Canada's Leylah Fernandez with a score of 6-4, 6-2. The American, ranked third in the world, has maintained an unbeaten run this season, demonstrating her prowess with every match. Gauff's latest victory came on Friday at the prestigious Rod Laver Arena, propelling her into the tournament's fourth round.

Gauff's exceptional performance marks her continued success since winning the 2023 US Open. “I think it was harder because she knew what to expect, and I definitely think she played a little bit different today than at the United Cup,” Gauff remarked following the match.

The 20-year-old athlete has not lost a single set this season, displaying impressive consistency and determination. Her upcoming challenge will be against Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic, who progressed to the next round after two-time Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka had to retire from their match. Osaka, who was battling an abdominal injury, conceded the match after losing the first set 7-6 in a tiebreak, admitting that her condition “wasn't fantastic.”

Gauff's victory underscores her growth and resilience in the sport, as she aims to improve upon her previous semifinal finish at the Melbourne tournament. As she prepares to face Bencic, who benefitted from Osaka’s withdrawal, the tennis world watches closely, eager to see if Gauff can maintain her dominant form through the later rounds.

For more updates on the Australian Open and top matches, stay tuned to Al Jazeera and Reuters.