WTA Auckland, New Zealand

Serena and Wozniacki dominate top seeds; Gauff and McNally advance

The top-seeded team of Caroline Dolehide and Johanna Larsson fell to the superstar duo, while Team McCoco ousted Jessica Moore and Irina Rodionova.



Serena and Wozniacki dominate top seeds; Gauff and McNally advance

Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki had no problem filling up the Auckland stands in their 6-2, 6-1 victory over No. 1 seeds Caroline Dolehide and Johanna Larsson.

The duo of former world No. 1s blitzed to a 3-0 double break lead in the first set and never looked back.

Serena’s raw power combined with Wozniacki’s creativity and touch is a nightmare for opponents who are forced to pick their poison before every stroke. Still, far too many shots from the top-seeds were directed at Williams, who has looked dangerously comfortable in her 2020 debut.

Judging by their team chemistry, it’s a shame Serena and Wozniacki waited so long to pair up.

“It’s crazy, my partner never misses, I love it,” a smiling Serena said.

“I have the best doubles partner, it’s amazing,” Wozniacki added.

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - JANUARY 06: Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark and doubles partner Serena Williams of USA walk off after winning their first round doubles match against Nao Hibino of Japan and Makoto Ninomiya of Japan during day one of the 2020 ASB Classic at ASB Tennis Centre on January 06, 2020 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images)
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Earlier in the day, Coco Gauff and Caty McNally continued to impress, improving their record to 14-2 on the pro level with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Jessica Moore and Irina Rodionova.

McNally’s peers say she has some of the best hands in the game, while Gauff acts as a hyper-mobile brick wall from the baseline—with a humongous serve.

Just like the singles draw, Williams and Gauff are one more win away from a much-anticipated clash.