Justine Henin questions Elise Mertens’ ‘capacity’ to take on Coco Gauff in US Open third round

Justine Henin questioned whether Elise Mertens has the stamina to hold off a challenge from Coco Gauff.

Speaking on Eurosport, former world No. 1 Henin discussed the chances of her compatriot Mertens, with the 27-year-old Belgian an expert doubles player but ranked No. 32 in the world in the singles game.

Nineteen-year-old Gauff looks to be making good on her well-known potential since her debut at 15, and she is moving up the rankings into contention for Grand Slams.

Discussing Mertens, Henin said: “When there is a challenge she really loves it… She can be dangerous.

“The problem with Elise: capacity of how long she can keep the same level during the match.”

Turning to Gauff, Henin said that the expectations and pressure on the young American are growing.

“Coco, she showed, I think, a lot of positive things from the beginning of the tournament,” she added.

“Expectations are huge. She is going to be the favourite in this match for sure.

“But Elise Mertens we see that she wants to have a lot of fun, she wants to enjoy the atmosphere.

“She wants to bring something special to this night. The problem is, will she be able to do it for two sets? Three sets, really?

“At the same level against a Coco who will give nothing today.

“Elise Mertens, remember, she has been in the quarter-finals here twice at the US Open. So I think she really likes the conditions and she feels comfortable on the Arthur Ashe Stadium.”