Overview
- Gauff edged Elisabetta Cocciaretto 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 in a two-hour, 15-minute battle at Hard Rock Stadium.
- It was her first match since retiring at Indian Wells on March 8 with a nerve issue in her left arm.
- Serving troubles persisted, with reports noting 11 double faults and visibly errant second serves at key moments.
- She next faces American Alycia Parks, who advanced by defeating Maria Sakkari 6-3, 6-3.
- Gauff, a Florida native, said playing her home tournament was a priority despite recent concerns about her arm.