In the upcoming WTA US Open semifinal, Karolina Muchova's backhand slice could be the game-changer in outplaying Coco Gauff.

With the clock ticking down towards the thrilling semifinal clash between Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova at the 2023 U.S. Open, speculation is rife about who will clinch the spot in the grand finale. My money is on Muchova, and here's why. 

Muchova, the No. 10 seed, has been on a relentless tear through the tournament, her backhand slice leaving her opponents scrambling. This weapon could be the key to defeating Gauff, the No. 6 seed, and securing her place in the final. 

Gauff is a solid opponent, no doubt about that. She's been tearing up the court, dominating her matches and showing an impressive 27-6 record on hard courts this year alone. The teenage sensation has been setting the court on fire, bagging her first WTA 500 and WTA 1000 titles and winning 16 of her last 17 matches. 

But let's not forget, Muchova is an athletic beast. This 27-year-old powerhouse has made her mark on the world stage, reaching at least the semifinals in three out of the four grand slams and boasting a 10-1 record in her last 11 matches. She's been there, done that, and has the battle scars to prove it. 

The backhand slice is Muchova's secret weapon, and it's going to be a major factor in her match-up against Gauff. It's not just a defensive move – it's a strategic play that can disrupt Gauff's rhythm and force her to make errors. 

Gauff's backhand is her bread and butter, but Muchova's slice could keep her from capitalizing on it. In addition, Muchova can also direct her slices towards Gauff's forehand, a move that can potentially draw out errors from the young American. 

Muchova's consistency and control over her backhand slice could prove to be a game-changer. She has the ability to direct her slice deep into the court, forcing Gauff to step back and, in turn, preventing her from taking control of the point. This tactical play could limit Gauff's aggressive playstyle and give Muchova the upper hand in the match. 

Despite Gauff's impressive form, she's going to have to find a way to counter Muchova's slice if she wants to keep her dream of clinching her first grand slam alive.

In this clash of the titans, my chips are on Muchova. Her experience, combined with her tactical backhand slice, could be exactly what she needs to take down Gauff and secure her spot in the final. 

Official Play: Karolina Muchova +4 Games (-147) 

Written By RosserSports (@Rosser_Sports)