Gauff Streaks Past Park Into Miami Match vs. Cirstea

Coco Gauff rallies from a set down to defeat Alycia Parks and advance to the Miami Open round of 16.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 1:25am

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In an all-American clash at the Miami Open, fourth-seeded Coco Gauff came from behind to defeat Alycia Parks 3-6, 6-0, 6-1 and secure her spot in the round of 16. After dropping the first set, Gauff found her rhythm, driving the ball deeper and stretching the rallies to wear down the hard-hitting Parks. Gauff will next face Romanian Sorana Cirstea for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Why it matters

Gauff's comeback victory over the rising American talent Parks showcases her ability to adjust her game and grind out tough wins, even when facing an early deficit. As one of the top young players on tour, Gauff's progress in the Miami Open will be closely watched as she aims to reach her first quarterfinal at this Premier Mandatory event.

The details

Gauff started strongly, taking a 2-0 lead, but then Parks found her range, rocketing drives down the line and reeling off six of the next seven games to take the first set 6-3. In the second set, Gauff dug in, denying Parks' break point chances and then running off nine straight games to level the match and cruise through the decider 6-1. Gauff's improved depth and physicality proved too much for Parks, who struggled with her forehand and looked increasingly winded as the match wore on.

  • The match took place on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
  • Gauff and Parks faced off in the third round of the Miami Open.

The players

Coco Gauff

The fourth-seeded American player who is seeking her first Miami Open quarterfinal appearance.

Alycia Parks

The rising American player who was making her third appearance at the Miami Open.

Sorana Cirstea

The Romanian player who Gauff will face in the round of 16 after defeating Elise Mertens.

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What they’re saying

“Sticky situations are sometimes springboards for Coco Gauff comebacks.”

— Richard Pagliaro, Author

What’s next

If Gauff can defeat Cirstea, she would play either US Open finalist Amanda Anisimova or former Olympic gold-medalist Belinda Bencic in the quarterfinals.

The takeaway

Gauff's ability to adjust her game and grind out a tough three-set victory over the hard-hitting Parks demonstrates her resilience and growth as a top player on the WTA Tour. Her progress in the Miami Open will be closely watched as she aims to reach the quarterfinals for the first time.