Melbourne erupted as Elina Svitolina from Ukraine scripted history at the Australian Open 2026, demolishing third-seeded American Coco Gauff 6-1, 6-2 in the quarterfinals. For the first time in her career, Svitolina advances to the semifinals here, adding to her tally of four Grand Slam semifinals.

Lasting just 59 minutes, the match showcased Svitolina’s tactical brilliance. She dictated play with ferocious groundstrokes and superior court coverage, while Gauff faltered on serve and racked up errors. A pivotal double fault from Gauff early on gifted Svitolina a break, turning the first set into a rout at 6-1.

The second set brought brief hope for Gauff with some wide serves finding their mark, but Svitolina’s consistency prevailed. Breaking serve five times total, she never let Gauff settle, securing a emphatic victory.

Svitolina’s form is red-hot: this win makes it 10 consecutive victories, her third-best streak. Pre-tournament, she claimed her 19th WTA title in Auckland, and she’s been flawless in sets at Melbourne Park. World No. 12 Svitolina, supported by husband Gael Monfils from the stands, is poised for a Top-10 ranking comeback next week—her first since late 2021.

This marks her 24th Top-5 scalp, including four at majors, all since returning from maternity leave. Gauff, a rising star, couldn’t find answers.

The semifinals pit Svitolina against No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka on Thursday. With both players in top form, fans anticipate a thriller that could send Svitolina to her maiden Grand Slam final.