Indian Wells, 09 March (H.S.): ,

Two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff's Indian Wells Open 2026 campaign imploded Sunday as excruciating left-hand pain forced her mid-match retirement against Philippines' Alexandra Eala in the third round.

Trailing 6-2, 2-0, the 21-year-old American called a medical timeout before the final game, then netted an apology: Sorry, you were playing great. Gauff described the agony as fireworks exploding inside my arm, the whole thing burning like fire—likely nerve-related, a first in her career.

Second Career Walkover

Gauff's only prior retirement came at 2022 Cincinnati. Fresh off thrashing Eala 6-0, 6-2 in Dubai quarters three weeks ago, she entered as title favorite. Eala, 20, advances to pre-quarters against Czech Linda Noskova.

Post-match, Eala reflected: Nobody likes winning this way—retiring hurts both sides. Still happy with my game; hope to sustain it. Gauff plans Monday MRI; doctors deem it short-term, eyeing Miami comeback.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar